As an Executive Speech Consultant and creator of Fripp Virtual Training, I’m dedicated to helping you sound as intelligent and credible as possible during your presentations. Whether you’re delivering a sales presentation, a keynote speech, or a critical boardroom report, selecting the right words elevates your message and ensures it resonates and sticks. This is true in the boardroom and on the convention stage.
Many of my speech coaching clients have difficulty memorably closing their presentations. Like a great opening that arouses interest in your subject, your closing words should support your message and leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Whatever you do, don’t end with: “Well, we’re out of time.” Even if it’s true, it weakens your conclusion. Avoid thanking the audience as your final statement—it’s polite but forgettable. Before you close, you can say, “Thank you for your enthusiasm and great questions. Last story…”
Never assume you can “wing it.” A well-crafted conclusion is as critical as a strong opening.
Plan it. Script it. Rehearse it. Deliver it.
Here is the unforgettable six-step process to close your presentation:
For example, if your topic is sales, begin the close with: “How can you double your sales with your current client list?” This reinforces your central theme while encouraging reflection.
Want to Transform Transactions into Trust: Your Key to Rewarding Business Relationships
From Sales to Relationships: The Secret Sauce
Let’s talk about “those people.” You know, the ones who call only when they need something. Be honest—are they your favorite people? Probably not. Now flip the script. Are you that person to your customers? Are you guilty of only reaching out when it’s time for a sale?
Imagine this instead: a sales professional calls you not to pitch but rather to share a lead or offer a tip that could help your business. Wouldn’t that make you feel more than a number on their quota sheet? That’s the power of showing you genuinely care.
Yes, success means closing deals; however, my father always taught me it’s about nurturing relationships that stand the test of time. Your ultimate goal isn’t just today’s sale. It’s to create partnerships where people enjoy doing business with you.
Read More...Reflections on My Sermon at Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church, San Francisco.
Recently, I had the honour of delivering a sermon at the Seventh Avenue Presbyterian Church titled; We Can Be Heroes for More than One Day. Inspired by presentations I’ve delivered with my brother, Robert Fripp, who played on David Bowie’s Heroes, this was an experience I’ll always treasure.
Read More...That Is Correct!
There are no boring subjects, only boring speakers. Your content or topic doesn’t matter—when presented well, it can become interesting, educational, and emotionally engaging.
Some believe that public speaking is just about knowing your subject. Having something to say is not enough to make your message come alive.
After all, knowing the words to a song— doesn’t mean you can sing it. To truly engage an audience, you need to deliver your content in a way that captures attention.
Turning “Boring” into Brilliant
Read More...On most Sundays, you will find me sipping coffee and watching my favorite news shows. I enjoy listening to intelligent and educated experts share their perspectives on the state of the world. As an executive speech coach, I find these programs an endless source of inspiration—and, occasionally, frustration.
One recurring irritant? The phrase I hear far too often: “Thanks for having me.” It’s a common go-to for experts, executives, and politicians when introduced on panels, in interviews, or during fireside chats. While polite, it’s not exactly memorable or precise.
As a presentation coach, I help my clients—from seasoned speakers to rising executives—find ways to stand out in similar settings. A crucial part is teaching them to use language that conveys their professionalism and expertise. It’s a simple change that can significantly affect how they are perceived.
Why the Words You Choose Matter
Read More...Recently, at the Professional Speechwriters World Conference, I had the pleasure of attending a half-day seminar delivered by Terry Szuplat, author of Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience. As a speechwriter for President Obama, Terry brought a wealth of experience and an insider’s perspective that was both fascinating and inspiring. The session was a masterclass in storytelling, precision, and the art of delivering a truly resonating message.
A Glimpse into the Presidential Process
Read More...I was once asked for the number one secret of presentation success.
My reply was, “There is no one secret; however if there were, it would be that your subject is of interest to your audience.”
Your relationship with your audience is one of the most critical factors in determining the success of your presentation. Mastering the art of connection will set you apart whether you are addressing 5, 50, or 500 people. Knowing how to build that relationship from the beginning is one secret to speaking confidently and confidently.
This short sentence gets your point across or summarizes your story. It adds clarity so that your audience grasps your message easily. These phrases are both memorable and easy for you and your audience to remember.
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These four principles will help you and your sales team build a strong foundation for a new client relationship.
Imagine my surprise when a national sales manager addressed his top 60 associates and said, “At lunch, the sales team and I agreed that we had no idea how we managed to sell anything before we met Patricia Fripp!”
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Receive free, on-going Fripp webinar invitations, sales and presentation skills information, and special discounts from Executive Speech Coach, Sales Presentation Trainer, and Professional Keynote Speaker, Patricia Fripp, CSP, CPAE. As an added bonus, sign up now and receive a free copy of Patricia Fripp’s How to Present and Teach in the Virtual World.
