What Do You Really Mean? Every day in my role as an executive speech coach and the creator of FrippVT, I always say, “Specificity builds credibility.” I listen to intelligent engineers, experienced leaders, and true experts in every field and find that too many are sloppy speakers. If you want to build your credibility, listen […]

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When you start to put together a presentation, what do you think about? You probably wonder how to make your presentation interesting to your audience. I recommend that you begin by knowing your audience and understanding not only what they need, but also what they want. They need to have “buy-in” for your topic. This […]

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Bruce Springsteen, Céline Dion, Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Winton Marsalis, Beyoncé, Justin Timberlake, Kristin Chenoweth… imagine how any one of these top performers would respond if you asked, “What role has rehearsal played in your career?” Without a doubt, rehearsal is essential to success. You’ve crafted an amazing presentation. You know that it will grab […]

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What’s your message? Legendary Hollywood producer Sam Goldwyn was quoted as saying, “If I want to send a message, I’ll send a telegram.” Yet, great films and good speeches do have a message. Some recent movies consist mainly of CGI explosions and chase scenes. They’re exciting, but at the end, the audience is usually left […]

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Do you know how to grab your audience? The first thirty seconds of your presentation are critical, like the first page of a book or first seconds of a TV show or film. If you don’t make an impact and hint at more to come, you lose your audience. Good movies, TV shows, and books, […]

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I am often asked, “How can I be confident that I’m connecting with my audience?” The answer is, “Make an emotional connection.” Whether you speak at a boardroom table or in a vast auditorium, your goal must be to connect emotionally with your audience. Emotional connection is key to ensuring your message is heard. Here […]

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Would it shock you to know that most professionals waste valuable time organizing their presentations? If you begin your process by opening your last PowerPoint presentation you may be guilty of falling into the trap of believing that is your presentation. Don’t get me wrong, I love PowerPoint. I often say, “Use more slides with […]

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A few inside secrets to make all your presentations unforgettable. Professionals must often deliver formal, prepared presentations. However, they must also give frequent, unplanned presentations. Imagine this scenario: You are in a virtual or in-person meeting when the executive leading the meeting notices you in the audience.  She says, “I didn’t know you were going […]

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If you want to improve your presentations learn your options for openings. No matter what your subject, audience makeup, or length of presentation what good presentations have in common is they get off to a good start. The first 30 seconds of your presentation are very important, as your goal is to engage the audience. […]

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True rock stars always end a concert on a high. Next, their fans spill from the crowded arena, still rocking out to an awesome replay in their heads. We can learn a lot about inspiring action and commitment from the world of rock music. When it comes to your presentation, always close on a high. […]

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