Today is World Homeless Day… How can a day ever be enough for this enormous crisis we witness on our streets EVERY day? However today is the day we can try to raise awareness for those of us who are less fortunate suffering from homelessness, to not just highlight the persistent predicament, but to share ways in which we, as a community, can invoke a positive response in providing opportunities, help and support.

It’s saddening to know that we reached the highest record of homelessness in January 2018 and it continues to grow, but there is much we can do to help. Click here to find out more and don’t forget show your support #WorldHomelessDay @homelessday

thestudio deeply values and cherishes the communities it calls home. We feel strongly about our local communities, so we’ve teamed up with local charities and not for profit organisations to try a do a little bit…

Who we are working with…?

Wood Street Mission…

This amazing children’s charity which helps and supports local families in Manchester & Salford. At their core, they believe all children should live a poverty free life, encouraging them to value education and offering practical guidance so families can raise themselves out of poverty.

For every booking in our alternative, self-contained events space: The Classroom we offer a £10 donation towards Wood Street Mission’s remarkable work. Enjoy retro snacks whist gathering your team to motivate and inspire whilst supporting some locals.

Find out more about Wood Street Mission by clicking here…

Foodinate…

Foodinate Fancy Cakes are a fantastic way to support our local communities. Grab a slice of feel good by adding “Foodinate Fancy Cakes” to an event with us. Whilst enjoying a selection of delicious gluten free mini cakes, Foodinate will provide a hot nourishing meal to a local person in need.

Find out more about Foodinate by clicking here…

Let’s Feed Brum…

A brilliant Birmingham based charity who focuses on providing “food, drink, essential supplies and friendship” to those living on our streets. We’ve teamed up with Let’s Feed Brum to help get these Brummies back on their feet, every day our chefs and catering team package up any extras, providing nutritious meals to be served up and offered in the soup kitchen. Just by booking lunch with us, you may be contributing to the bigger picture.
Last December our team even cooked and helped serve a Christmas lunch for 300 homeless souls in the Cathedral, quite a feat and one we were all proud to be involved with.

Find out more about Let’s Feed Brum by clicking here…

Crisis…

This inspiring organisation pools all its efforts to help ease homelessness throughout the UK. Through recognising the needs of those on the street, they empower these individuals to stir up real positive change in their lives. Annually, thestudio joins hands with Crisis @ Christmas, hosting their guests with delicious festive themed treats and a space to provide services like health checks, mindfulness, creativity, hair and well-being sessions.

Find out more about Crisis by clicking here…

We’d love to help more and are open to your great ideas and suggestions. Please feel free to DM us on twitter @studiovenues with your thoughts on how we can help build a better future for us all.

Ever notice how people who are admired, radiate a positive and friendly aura? Whether you’re looking to secure agreements, network or become someone’s go to person, body language has a meaningful impact on the connections we attempt to create. We are frequently told “actions speak louder than words”, so join us as we delve into the world of body language!

What is this body language you speak of?

Body language in a nutshell is how we consciously and unconsciously hold ourselves. It’s a form of nonverbal communication which gives clues into our frame of mind or attitude. From posture to a welcoming handshake, every gesture we make is subconsciously noted in the minds of our audiences. It has the power to convey how we really feel, without even saying a word! “Research says that our communication consists of 35% verbal communication and 65% non-verbal communication.”

Positivity is infectious!

First time presenting or have an important client catch up? A positive body language can help captivate, influence and draw in your audience/guests to the pivotal message of your meeting. We’ve done some digging and here are a few ways you’ll give off the best impression:

1. Chillin’ is winning – having a relaxed posture, breathing and open arms/palms are all signs of a calm demeanour. Making you seem approachable, friendly and pleasant.

2. It’s all in the eyes – eye contact is important; it shows that you are confident and comfortable in a given situation/environment. It’s said that eye contact when teaching improves learning, attention and makes the audience feel more engaged. It even expresses interest…just remember not to stare!

3. Nodding helps to emphasise key points and makes them more memorable.

4. Show off your pearly whites – smiling and using humour encourages people to feel more at ease and makes it easier to develop a warm personal relationship.

Everything in moderation…

Positive body language should be used sparingly, it’s a fine line as consistent exaggerated gestures can come off more negative than positive!

After thought…

Body language can be consciously applied to any given situation, so we hope that you’ve found this insightful. Why not give it a whirl and try out our positive body language tips!

Written by: Jyoti Banga