Management by Chocolate: Sweet strategies for savvy communicators

One of the big things on my list this year is to continue working on my books. While primarily a children's book author, I am currently writing a communications management book titled "Management by Chocolate." The following is a sneak peek at the introduction. I want to whet your appetite by giving you regular tastes of the book before publication. So sit back, have a chocolate, and let me now what you think of this tasty approach to teambuilding, leadership, and building relationships using a bit of sweet encouragement!

INTRODUCTION

 So, you’ve stumbled upon this title and thought, “Chocolate? In a book about communications and people management? What’s the connection?” Well, grab your favorite snack and let’s dive into this sweet mystery!

 You see, chocolate isn’t just a delightful indulgence; it’s a magical icebreaker, a conversation starter, a comforting hug in candy form, and yes, the ultimate stress-reliever. Imagine it as the Swiss Army knife of relationship-building! This book is a little about how I’ve wielded this cocoa power, but mostly, it’s about the art of connecting with people in a world that can sometimes feel as chaotic as a candy store on Halloween.

 As a communications professional for decades (yes, I’ve been around long enough to remember when fax machines were cutting-edge), I’ve seen it all. Anyone who’s visited my office knows there’s a big bowl of chocolate sitting proudly on my desk. It’s not just a remedy for the sweet tooth. It’s a gateway to conversations that spark innovation, creativity, and occasionally, a good old-fashioned vent session. While some folks might just see it as free candy, I view it as an investment in relationships and a way to sweeten the pot of collaboration.

 Welcome to Management by Chocolate, where I’m serving up delectable advice on working with people and helping them unlock their most productive selves—one chocolate piece at a time. And don’t worry, the bowl has evolved over the years; it’s now a colorful mix of chocolates and candies, which is a lesson in itself: variety is the spice of life!

 Now, let’s get a little personal. I dedicate this book to my family—a wonderfully blended microcosm of personalities, talents, quirks, and an insatiable curiosity. Everything I know about people and relationships started right at home. A huge shoutout to my husband, Mark, who has been my rock through every storm, celebrated every victory, and held my hand during the not-so-successful moments. You truly deserve a medal (or at least a giant chocolate bar)!

 And last but not least, I owe a massive thank you to Chris Koukola. She’s the one who taught me the ropes of navigating the political minefield of public relations. For over twenty years, she was my leader and mentor, shaping many lessons and inspirations that I carry with me today.

 So, buckle up! Let’s embark on this journey together, where chocolate and communication blend into a recipe for success!