This last week, I had a wonderful time at the Toastmasters International Convention in Las Vegas, where I delivered the opening keynote to a truly international audience. (Just in case you don’t already know, Toastmasters International is a non-profit educational organization teaching public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network.) One of the many […]
Read More...How to Fine-Tune Your Words for Greater Impact
Are your presentations persuasive? Powerful? Subtle differences in language can make an enormous difference. Maybe you’ve already edited a script of your speech. This is a great first step, but I recommend you also record yourself and listen carefully. Then, fine-tune your words and phrases to maximize your impact. Consider both your word choices and […]
Read More...Toastmasters 2015 World Championship of Public Speaking
I am honored to speak this month at the 2015 Toastmasters International Convention in Las Vegas. The semifinalists in the 2015 Toastmasters World Championship of Public Speaking competition have just been announced. Those who make it to this international speech competition have won competitions, beginning with club contests and continuing through area, division, and district […]
Read More...Public Speaking – What Fortune 500s Know
Does your organization encourage, or even better, provide training to equip your employees with competitive communication and leadership skills? Have you considered your own in-house Toastmasters club or perhaps Fripp Virtual Training? If you are reluctant to allocate employee time or company resources to presentation training because you worry “they might leave,” consider what my […]
Read More...Public Speaking – What You Can Do to Conquer The Jitters
Delivering Your Speech Is More Than the Words You’re waiting your turn to deliver your presentation when suddenly you realize that your stomach is doing strange things and your mind is rapidly going blank. How do you conquer the jitters? People ask me this question all the time; there is no single answer. You must […]
Read More...The Day King Crimson Exploded onto The Scene
My brother, Robert Fripp is known around the world as a legendary guitarist and a member of King Crimson, but not everyone knows he is in fact a superb and entertaining speaker! I had the pleasure of presenting with him at the 2015 Lady & the Champs Speakers’ Conference. (Our presentations were recorded and are […]
Read More...Public Speaking – Do You Move with Purpose?
Stand still at the start of your presentation. Your audience members need a moment to become accustomed to the sound of your voice, your style of speaking, and sometimes your accent. After this, incorporate movement into your presentation, only if your movements are purposeful and support your message. Unconscious expressions of nervous energy will detract […]
Read More...How to Successfully Moderate A Panel Discussion
Most people are aware that a formal presentation requires research and rehearsal, but keep in mind that preparation can ensure your success in all speaking situations. If you have been asked to moderate a panel, be aware that there is more to this than simply firing off a few questions and hoping your panelists will […]
Read More...Sales – How to Focus Your Conversations on Your Prospects
Do you think of yourself as the center of the universe? Hopefully not. Unfortunately, if we’re not thoughtful in our approach to sales conversations we can sound like we do. When it comes to sales, the word “I” can be a barrier to connecting with prospects and clients.
Read More...How to Prospect in Any Economic Climate
3. Keep in touch with your present clients more frequently. Not just asking for referrals. The better your relationship with them the more they will want to send you new prospects.
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