Want to achieve bigger results? Maybe you should do something small. Recently, I called Verizon support when the memory card that I removed from my smartphone wouldn't go back in.

It is a very small card for a very tight slot and I tried several times to put it in place, but it seemed like I was breaking the card. Technical support gave me effective, simple and completely surprising advice: "wiggle it."

Sometimes, brute force isn't the answer to achieve what you want and subtle changes in technique, or perhaps more finesse is all that it takes. That's the principle of kaizen, the art of incremental improvement. Here are three ways you can tweak your techniques and get better results in your presentation skills, sales effectiveness, influence and networking skills:

Presentation Skills:
- Memorize your opening and conclusion for every presentation.
- Replace the word "I" with "you" every chance possible.
- Pause more (especially after an important point or rhetorical question).

Sales Effectiveness:
- Add at least one follow-up "touch" for customers and prospects.
- Develop specific language to ask for more referrals from everyone.
- Reach out to lost sales and update them on new value or solutions you offer.

Networking:
- Review your list of everyone you know personally and professionally (You'll find someone new to reach out to.)
- Find at least one new resource (articles, tips, leads, etc.) that you can share with the people in your network.
- Join a new community of like-minded people (join a LinkedIn group that your target market participates in, join an online community or social organization).

Remember, even if you are already using all of the above techniques, you can still find small ways to tweak your techniques. Ask, "what small change can I make that will make me more effective?"

A  small act can have a huge impact for your personal productivity, success and effectiveness. In my case, a simple course correction from technical support, saved me time, money and a trip to the store. Find out what small actions can mean for your presentations, sales and networking by using the tips in this month's newsletter. Happy tweaking.