In this episode, Dr. Laura Sicola interviews Richard Blank, the CEO of Costa Rica's Call Center, about the importance of communication skills and influence in the business world. They discuss the value of soft skills, such as foreign language proficiency, and the need to recognize and leverage one's unique talents. Richard challenges listeners to improve their voicemail messages and congruence between their audio and visual presence. They also talk about the importance of giving people a personalized outbound voicemail message and the impact it has on the impression they leave. He emphasizes the importance of trust, faith, and having a sense of humor in building relationships and achieving success. In this episode you will learn: Character during chaos is an important leadership trait. Promote individuals based on their strengths and redirect them to roles where they can excel. Express appreciation and acknowledge the contributions of team members. Take calculated risks and communicate with stakeholders about challenges and unique aspects of the business. Soft skills, including foreign language proficiency, are valuable and marketable skills in the business world. Recognize and leverage your unique talents and skills, and don't downplay their importance. Improve your voicemail message and ensure congruence between your audio and visual presence. Give a personalized outbound voicemail message to make a positive impression. Be the lone voice of dissent when necessary and advocate for others. About Richard Blank At 27 years old, Richard relocated to Costa Rica to train employees for one of the larger call centers in San Jose. He has trained over 10 000 bilingual telemarketers over two decades. Richard has the largest collection of restored American Pinball machines and antique Jukeboxes in Central America making gamification a strong part of CCC culture. Richard Blank is the Chief Executive Officer for Costa Rica’s Call Center since 2008.   You can connect with Richard in the following way: Website: https://costaricascallcenter.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessprocessoutsourcingcallcenter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ST99AEp7COEWS4q4VUw4Q LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/ You can connect with Dr. Laura Sicola in the following ways: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlaurasicola LinkedIn Business Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/laurasicola-inc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LauraSicolainc Facebook: Dr. Laura Sicola Twitter: @LauraSicola Instagram: @drlaurasicola Website: https://laurasicola.com Laura’s Online Course: virtualinfluence.today See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.