Last night I went see Fiona Harrold (http://www.fionaharrold.com/) talk. It was an interesting evening - not just because of what Fiona Harrold said - but also because how I reacted. Rather than listen and absorb every word as I would have a few years ago, I found myself watching her - noticing the way that she stood, the way that she used her voice, the way that she held, or didn't hold her audience's attention. In short, I felt as though I was examining her for what I could learn from her - or not, as the case may be.

Paula Gardner is the author of Get Noticed: Boost your small business profile in 30 days or less.