Let's say (hypothetically of course) that someone of power walks into your office and asks, "How do we know our communication programs are delivering for us?" Some of you might pull out some activity stats and talk about clicks and reader surveys. Some of you would pull out employee surveys and show awareness and understanding scores. Many fewer of you would pull out behavioral change statistics and point to communication programs impact on changing behavior. All three of these measurement approaches can help even the best get better -- especially when all three are woven into comprehensive program effectiveness review.

And still something is missing. I'll be showing you a study that helps companies benchmark their programs against the best -- the best in their industry as well as the best global programs. In the session I'm running Monday at 3:30 pm, "Secrets of Top Performers: Engaging Employees and Building Shareholder Value", we'll look at what Watson Wyatt has learned over six years and three Communication Return on Investment studies. Six years and "Six Secrets" - what could be better?

Maybe the weather… last time I flew to Denver (skis and boots in tow) I spent what seemed to be days (OK maybe it was only an 8-hour delay) trying to get home. Just in case there's unseasonable weather I'll be sure to pack a couple of great books. It was during another long many-hour delay in an Omaha snowstorm that I learned several "MacGyver" travel tricks from two very entertaining flight attendants. So, in the spirit of the community of traveling communicators I share the trick below. I look forward to seeing you in Denver… safe travels everyone.

MacGyver Travel Trick to Banish Non-Closing Hotel Drapes: You know the ones I mean. The ones that never quite close (and you are ALWAYS facing East when this happens) and so at 5:00 AM, after a late night, there is a piercing beam of sunlight that strikes you smack in the face. Here's the trick - take a pants hanger. Turn it lengthwise and clip the drape together. Works like a charm… Hope you'll share your travel tricks (or favorite books) in your comments.

Kathryn Yates, Watson Wyatt's Global Director, Communication and Change