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Sarita Maybin      

TEDx Speaker, Author, Communication Expert & Former University Dean

Sarita Maybin provides her audiences with the skills to transform uncomfortable conversations into constructive communication. With real stories, real solutions and a relatable presence, she breaks down barriers to reveal how to work together better.

In her 20+ years as an international speaker and communication expert, Maybin has spoken in all 50 states, 10 countries—including Iceland—and on the prestigious TEDx stage. Her extensive client list includes Hewlett-Packard, Los Angeles County, Kaiser Permanente, Department of the Navy, University of California and many others.

Maybin has made it her mission to inspire others to embrace positivity, even amid the challenges of our ever-changing high-tech times. Raised as a “military brat” moving from country to country, Maybin quickly learned that it’s just what you say but how you say it that matters.

She is a former university dean of students and literally wrote the book on how to answer the perpetually perplexing question: "If You Can’t Say Something Nice, What DO You Say?" She continues the conversation in her new book "Say What You Mean in a Nice Way."

Speech Topics


Say What You Mean in a Nice Way: Communicating with Kindness and Compassion

Learn how to transform uncomfortable conversations into constructive communication in this upbeat presentation based on Sarita Maybin’s new book Say What You Mean in a Nice Way. Take away real solutions for communicating with compassion, kindness and civility—in person and online. Gain fresh insights on how to say what you mean and mean what you say in a nice way.

Presentation highlights include:

  • How to communicate with C.A.R.E. to create positive results
  • You’re Not the Boss of Me – How to gain cooperation when you’re not in charge
  • Do You Play Nicely? How to lead, follow or get out of the way
  • How to navigate dialogue dilemmas when communicating online
  • Are you a L.I.A.R.? – Four behaviors that make or break relationships

If You Can't Say Something Nice, What Do You Say?: Practical Solutions for Working Together Better

We’ve all been told “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” This high energy presentation based on Sarita’s first book provides practical approaches and positive phrases for those times when you need to say something NOT so nice. Learn how to respectfully deflect the negative comment of a well-meaning manager, kindly clue in a co-worker and constructively convey concerns…without destroying the relationship.

Presentation Highlights Include:

  • How to know if you should confront a situation or just let it go

  • Three-step process for conveying concerns with tact and respect

  • How to soften the sting when giving negative feedback or bad news
  • How to respond when someone asks your opinion, and you have nothing nice to say
  • How to set boundaries with your boss—without being insubordinate

How to Stay Positive and Focused in Uncertain Times

The ability to stay positive and productive in the face of change, challenges and uncertainty is essential for success. In this uplifting presentation, you will learn how to recharge your energy using “resiliency resources,” reset after setbacks and rekindle passion for your career.

Presentation highlights include:

  • Strategies for thriving on change
  • How to cope with workplace situations that are beyond your control
  • Five ways to rekindle passion for your career
  • Three P’s for Staying Positive
  • How to use your “resiliency resources” to bounce back from adversity

Communicating for Success: Working Together for Better Results

Learn how to communicate in a way that gets your ideas heard and encourages the cooperation of others. Take away tools that will empower you to communicate at all levels within your organization and effectively build trust within your own team. Sarita will share her Top 10 Positive Communication Phrases and five proven strategies for overcoming listening barriers.

Presentation highlights include:

  • Discover what your body language is really saying
  • Overcome listening barriers using five proven strategies
  • Find out how well you listen – Listening Checklist
  • Build trust using Sarita’s Top 10 Positive Communication Phrases
  • How to receive negative feedback without getting defensive

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