I advise speakers to, “Edit out the words that have no meaning.” Thought you would be interested in this article from Ragan Communications by Rob Reinalda. Rob and I obviously agree that “specificity builds credibility.” Thanks Rob for your good work! Your pain is adding to my education… Patricia Fripp Writers, Purge These Redundancies! Today’s […]

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As an executive speech coach, I recommend that in preparing your presentation you record yourself and then listen carefully to find and eliminate all non-words, clichés and redundancies from your talk; these will only dilute your message and bore your audience! Lisa Braithwaite wrote this great article on “filler phrases” which appeared in Ragan Communications. […]

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If you are looking for the number one best way to make an impact with your speech –  the answer is simple. Customize! Be aware of your audience’s needs and concerns as you develop every aspect of your speech. Here is an overview of top techniques to customize your presentations. These techniques are used by […]

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One of my roles as an executive speech coach is helping my clients sound original, fresh and thoughtful. Phrases and words that are redundant and overused should be banished; whether you’re writing or speaking, these will weaken your message and cause your audience to tune out. Ragan Communications featured this article by Marc Ensign.  Marc […]

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Whenever you open your mouth – whether your audience is one person or a thousand – you usually want to get a message across. Maybe you want your opinions heard at meetings, or you’re giving a formal presentation. Possibly, you’re even in a position to advise your sales team or CEO on an important presentation. […]

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Frequently I am asked if executives should dumb down their communications. No, not necessarily. The Patricia Fripp suggestion is to speak conversationally. If you would use that word or phrase at the dinner table, or in your boardroom include it in your speech or conversation. However, you must also consider whether you sound original and […]

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Ever Wondered How to Open Your Presentation with Impact? This is how I opened my keynote presentation for District 12 Toastmasters Spring conference. “In July 1978 at the Galt House Hotel in Louville, KY at my second NSA convention Dr. Kenneth McFarland who was considered the Dean of all American speakers and the person we […]

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As an executive speech coach I am sometimes asked, “How do I handle distractions?” Ringing cell phones and computer crashes can challenge anyone delivering a presentation. My friend Rob Sherman wrote this helpful article. How to Deal with Distractions by Rob Sherman Presentation distractions are inevitable. You can’t avoid them. These unplanned events that divert […]

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Want to Improve Your Presentation Skills? Learn from Hollywood Actor and Speaker Bob Roitblat presents Hollywood techniques for better professional speaking. Last week I was speaking for the National Speakers Association Illinois. What a great group and one of my news friends is Bob Roitblat. If you are a regular reader you know I love learning from Hollywood […]

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