When we reminisce about Hollywood, it’s often the stories that movies tell that captivate us the most. Screenwriting teacher Robert McKee eloquently states, “Stories are the creative conversion of life itself into a more powerful, clearer, more meaningful experience. They are the currency of human contact.” Storytelling: The Cornerstone of Effective Leadership Many of us […]
Read More...You Don’t Like It: Learn from It. Transform Criticism into Success
Criticism, or as you may prefer to call it, “constructive feedback,” is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to refine their presentation skills. While the sting of criticism can be unsettling, embracing it as a tool for growth is a hallmark of a seasoned professional. The Audience as Critics In my extensive career as a […]
Read More...Earn the Right to Win New Business: A Guide for Early-Career Professionals
In the competitive world of business, earning the right to win new clients is a crucial skill, especially for those early in their careers. Whether you’re a financial planner, a salesperson, or an entrepreneur, the challenge remains the same: How do you earn the trust and business of potential clients? Let’s delve into some proven […]
Read More...5 Ways to Get The Professional Life You Want
Tell me what you say you want. Show me one week of your life and I will tell you if you will get it. Every day is a good time to challenge everything you do, expand your thinking, refocus your efforts, and dedicate yourself to your future. If you haven’t done this already this year, […]
Read More...How Do We Become a Hero for More than One Day? Robert Fripp Tells You How
As you may know, my brother Robert Fripp played on David Bowie’s Heroes. In our presentations on How to Be a Hero For More Than One Day, I ask Robert questions and he gives brilliant and thoughtful answers. PF How do we become a hero? RF Practice! We practice acts of heroism. Two approaches: the extensive […]
Read More...“The Rule of Three” Makes Magic – Do You Cast This Spell On Your Audiences?
“The Rule of Three” is a writing and speaking principle suggesting that a trio of events or characters is more humorous, satisfying, and effective than other numbers. The trio format holds a unique appeal to audiences. The use of three elements offers brevity, rhythm, and a concise pattern that sticks in your audiences’ minds. with […]
Read More...A Lesson in History While on The Couch
Swanage in World War II Exploring the history of a town or city adds a rich layer of appreciation to our experience of a place.I love being a tourist and understand the value of delving into the past to enhance my understanding and connection with a destination. During my vacation in Swanage, Dorset, near my […]
Read More...What Do You Do with Your Hands When Speaking?
As a speech coach, one of the most common questions I am asked is, “What do I do with my hands when I speak in public?” It’s a question that is natural to ask. This is what I tell my clients and audiences. It’s important to remember that your hand gestures are best when in […]
Read More...You Have Achieved Great Success. How Do You Talk About It Without Showing Off?
Have you noticed; some people are very uncomfortable talking about themselves even when they are very successful? This may be because when you were young, your parents told you to not “Show Off.” Or you are uncomfortable when someone else drones on about themselves and all their much-exaggerated accomplishments. I understand. However, from time to […]
Read More...Want to Get Ahead? Here are 6 Characteristics that Will Help
Take advantage of every opportunity. I began my career as a hairstylist. Now that I am decades into my next career, I am often asked, “Patricia, how did you become a speaker, author, and executive speech coach?” The simple answer is by noticing and taking advantage of every chance that turned up, that seemed interesting […]
Read More...
