November is National Nonfiction Writing Month, also known as the Write Nonfiction in November Challenge. During this month, you are personally challenged to start and complete a work of nonfiction in 30 days. This can be an article, an essay, a book, a book proposal, a white paper, or a manifesto. It’s an honor to […]
Read More...Secrets Speakers Can Take from Copywriters
Developing a powerful and persuasive presentation begins with thoughtful structure and careful word choices. Speakers can benefit from learning the secrets of good writers. I share this fascinating article from Ragan Communications explaining the psychological strategies copywriters use to craft headlines. Courtney Seiter explains how and why effective copy works on even the most distracted […]
Read More...Sales Presentations – Your Audience, They Really Don’t Care Who You Are
You are competing for a major contract. All of the companies the being considered have great reputations, stellar client lists, and similar pricing structures. How do you craft and deliver your sales presentation to stand out as the clear choice amidst the competition? Here are some do’s and don’ts to be aware of:
Read More...Sales – Prospects Perceive Value Through Your Commitment
When you lose business you should have captured, you lose twice. First, you don’t get the sale or the cash flow. Secondly, your competitor gets both. It is not your prospect’s job to remember you. It is your responsibility to make sure they do not have the chance to forget you. I share this advice […]
Read More...Celebrating Toastmasters’ 90th Anniversary
Congratulations to Toastmasters International on its 90th anniversary! Let us celebrate Toastmasters’ 90 years, as a non-profit educational organization helping men and women around the world develop their public speaking and leadership skills. Before I ever established myself as a professional keynote speaker, before I had the honor of serving as the first female president […]
Read More...Public Speaking – How to Recognize and Reject Unhelpful Feedback
An outside perspective on your presentation or public speaking skills is often the best way to discover where you can improve your content or delivery. However, ask yourself: “Is this person giving their advice truly qualified to help me? Does this person have my best interests at heart? Am I asking for their input, or […]
Read More...Great Ways to Connect with Your Audience – Expert Advice
The Secret of Connecting to Your Audience When your message is memorable, your communication clear, and your presentation powerful, you will position yourself for greater success. If you want to excel as a public speaker you must make an emotional connection with your audience, regardless of your subject, setting, or message. The most powerful communication […]
Read More...Public Speaking – Delivery Strategy
After you have crafted and rehearsed your presentation, review your delivery strategy. Public speaking can create an adrenaline rush – so, when you are about to take the stage you may feel charged with energy or a bit nervous. Your audience will feel comfortable, when you look confident. Remember, nobody knows how you feel; they […]
Read More...Do You Alienate Your Audience? Make A “You” Turn
If we focus too much on ourselves in our presentations, we run the risk of losing our audience and failing to get our message across – even if our content and delivery is strong. I share some insights on this from my friend and fellow presentation expert, Darren LaCroix. How many times have you been […]
Read More...There Are No Shortcuts to Effective Sales Conversations
If a potential client is willing to engage initial conversation, they have an underlying reason to consider your product or service. Sales conversations are most effective when they are focused on your client’s concerns – not the product or service you provide. There are no shortcuts to effective sales conversations. Always take the time to understand […]
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