Rachel Martin on TriSec 16

Listen to the sound clip below to hear what Falmouth Curriculum Specialist and instructor Rachel Martin has to say about her experience at TriSec 16.

When You're Editing, Use Your Head Not Your Computer

Welcome to Tips and Tricks Tuesday, a weekly column on grammar for tribal secretaries and administrative assistants.

Despite all the technology that has made writing easier, it can’t take the place of a powerful vocabulary, a firm grasp of grammar and a good eye — and ear — for editing your own work. Yes, of course, any word processing program worth its hefty price includes spelling and grammar checks. But spell check isn’t going to tell you the difference between heal and heel or when to use that, which or who. It’s also of little use when it comes to spelling most tribal names and most surnames — Native American or not.

So here’s our first tip: Use your head first and last. Never send out anything that hasn’t been checked and double checked.

When you’re editing your own work, follow these tips:

1. Walk away from it … at least for a little while. You need to take a break between your writing and your editing.


2. Use a pencil as you read your work. Point to every word and look at it. Does it look right? Are you sure of the spelling? If not, look it up. Don’t rely on your computer’s spell check.


3. Read your work aloud slowly. Reading your writing aloud helps you look at every word and it gives you a better idea of the tone or your work, whether all your sentences make sense and whether you’ve conveyed your thoughts accurately.


4. Get a second set of eyes. Find someone in your office with a proven record of good writing and editing skills and ask him or her to read your work. This is not needy or unprofessional. This should be standard operating procedure for all business material that will be distributed to the public.


5. Remember that writing and editing is a skill. Your ability will increase with knowledge and practice.

Online training sessions in June

Continue to improve upon your professional skills when you participate in one of our online training sessions next month.

Business Communication Series: Error Free Writing

June 11, 2009 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST ONLINE

In November 2008, poor grammar led cancer researchers in Hawaii to lose $8 million in funding from cigarette taxes, as only one cigarette was specified in the law. Grammar mistakes can be costly! Don’t let errors in your writing negatively affect you and your tribal organization. Sign up today and begin our Business Communication Series with “Error Free Writing.”

Sexual Harassment for Tribes and Tribal Organizations

June 11, 2009 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. EST ONLINE

Anyone who has encountered sexual harassment will tell you that it’s bothersome, irritating and demeaning. It’s also against the law. During this workshop, you’ll learn the important aspects of handling sexual harassment issues and complaints. You’ll examine how to prevent unacceptable behavior from the beginning.

Records Management for Tribal Secretaries and Administrative Assistants

June 16, 2009 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. EST ONLINE

The effective and efficient performance of an organization necessitates accurate records. Learn to tackle the ever-growing mound of data: paper and electronic. Avoid costly, time-consuming mistakes and discover proven techniques that will help you organize and manage important tribal records.

TriSec 2009 Welcome Reception photos

To view more photos from TriSec 16's famous Hollywood Red Carpet Welcome Reception, please click here.

TriSec 16 a success!

Thank you for attending. Stay tuned for photos from the conference.

We hope to see you next year!

TriSec: Day 2 under way!

Today, April 15, is day 2 of TriSec 16 in Anaheim, CA.

Last night, the Hollywood Red Carpet Welcome Reception shined. Attendees celebrated their achievements and kicked off the week in style.

Trisec: Just days away!

Wouldn't you like to ...

• ... become a great public speaker?
• ... make your office more earth-friendly?
• ... prevent sexual harassment in the workplace?
• ... deal effectively with difficult people and situations?
• ... manage work-related stress?

... then join us for TriSec 16! But hurry; time is running out to register. You don't want to miss this exciting learning opportunity.

Throughout the month, you, your efforts and your commitment are honored. You deserve the time for both personal and professional growth. Join us in Anaheim, where tribal secretaries and administrative assistants will gain the skills that they need to succeed. You can shape your future.

If you have already registered, click here to download and print your workshop slides. Remember: Falmouth will not provide printed presentation handouts for any of the workshops.