Imagine you have just thirty seconds to transform a room of strangers into a captivated audience that will hold on to your every word. This is your moment to make a powerful first impression in any presentation—whether it’s a high-stakes sales presentation to win a training contract, an educational seminar, or a keynote speech to […]
Read More...Your Actions Speak Loudly
Recently, I received a call from a 90-year-old woman who said, “I bought Chicken Soup for the Soul when it first came out. My children and grandchildren still read it. I wanted you to know that three generations like your story.” Like many of the stories that Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield collected from […]
Read More...Want to Deliver an Unforgettable Presentation? Research Your Favorite Phrases
When you deliver a speech, do you research your favorite frequently-used phrases? One of my clients was preparing a keynote and wanted to use the phrase ‘burning the midnight oil.’ I asked, “Do you know where that comes from?” Together, we discovered it dates back to when oil lamps were used, perfectly illustrating the dedication […]
Read More...Want to Close Your Presentation on a High? Use the Unforgettable Six-Step Process
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 […]
Read More...It May Surprise You, There Are No Boring Subjects, Only Boring Speakers
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 […]
Read More...Elevate Your Language and Stand Out in Every Conversation
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 […]
Read More...When A New Relationship Is Worth Millions Remember This Advice
How do you handle a sales presentation when a new relationship is potentially worth millions? 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 […]
Read More...Want to Know the Secrets of How to Become a Speaking Superstar?
Want to Know the Secrets of How to Become a Speaking Superstar? If you want to become a speaking superstar, control your pace and embrace the power of the pause. Think of a pause as a tool, not a sign of forgetting what to say next. A well-placed pause gives your audience a moment to […]
Read More...How to Connect with an International Audience: Secrets of Working Effectively with Interpreters
The dictionary tells us that “translate” is a verb and means to change from one language into another or form or medium into another, essentially making sense of a language. On the other hand, “interpret” is similar yet different. The primary definition is to make sense of, assign meaning to, or explain something. Understanding this […]
Read More...Are You Overlooking a Powerful Tool to Create Compelling Content?
As a presentation skills expert, I often tell my clients that the best content for their talks comes from unexpected places. Often in fascinating conversations with intriguing people. Engaging in exciting dialogues with diverse individuals is not just a delightful experience; it’s a goldmine for your presentations and personal growth. Conversations are an endless source […]
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