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...Make an Emotional Connection the Power of Perspective and Interactivity
To win your audience’s heart and mind, it’s essential to forge an emotional bond right from the beginning of your presentation. However, what does that really mean, and how do you execute it effectively? Case Study: Changing the Point of View During one of my training sessions, Stephen, who has lived with deafness since birth, […]
Read More...The Art of Conversation A Hidden Treasure Trove for Stories
You may be sitting on a goldmine of untapped stories to use in your presentations, and you don’t even realize it. How? By paying close attention to your everyday conversations. Let’s explore two ideas that may seem at odds but can work in tandem: The merit of recounting stories you’ve heard from others, versus the […]
Read More...Want to Know the Secrets to Maximize a Great Marketing Opportunity?
Give a Speech! Every service club and community group is looking for a free speaker next Thursday at lunchtime. Okay, it could be Wednesday morning at breakfast or even in Zoom. You get the point! If that is you, do not overlook a magnificent marketing opportunity. Here is a roadmap of everything you need to […]
Read More...How to Arouse Interest in Your Subject
You have 30 seconds to command the attention of your audience. Don’t waste it! Certain speech openings captivate, mystify, and create an emotional bond that keeps an audience in the palm of the speaker’s hand. What would you give to learn those essential opening moves? Those great ways to bond instantly with an audience so […]
Read More...How to Unlock the Power of Memorable Messages, Powerful Presentations and Successful Sales
In today’s fast-paced world, capturing your audience’s attention is only half the battle. The real challenge is to make your message stick, deliver it powerfully, and convert that engagement into successful sales. That’s where I come in. Why Memorable Messages Matter As you know from your own experience, the average person is exposed to thousands […]
Read More...The Power of Your Opening – Unleash the Potential of the First 30 Seconds
Have you ever marveled at the energy that surges through a room when a speaker begins with just the right words? A room full of individuals, each one different, yet all captivated by the magic that unfolds in those first precious moments of a speech. For decades I have invested time exploring the ideas, formulas, […]
Read More...Want to Rock the Stage? Don’t Miss this Step to Presentation Success
Rehearsal is the secret sauce to a memorable presentation that will leave your audience buzzing with excitement and wanting more! Don’t even think about skipping this crucial step – it’s the ultimate key to unlocking your full potential as a speaker. Step 1: Embrace the Power of Rehearsals Once you’ve fine-tuned your talk, it’s showtime! […]
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