I was recently featured in an article called, “How to Give a Killer Webinar: Tips from the Pros,” by Michael Ventimiglia, who asked a dozen marketing, presentation, and webinar experts, “What are your best tips for giving a webinar?” I share a few of the very useful strategies Michael gathered from the pros: Before Your […]
Read More...Are You Using Filler Words?
As an executive speech coach, I recommend that when preparing your presentation, you record yourself and then listen carefully to identify and eliminate all unnecessary words and phrases. Cut out anything that will dilute your message, including your personal verbal “tics,” clichés, and filler words. Business communications expert, Ben Decker of Decker Communications reminds us […]
Read More...Do Not Memorize Your Speech
Even highly experienced speakers must rehearse for a presentation. Do not confuse rehearsal with memorization. You should not memorize your entire presentation, but rather your opening, key points, and conclusion. Then, rehearse enough so you can “forget it.” This allows you to retain your spontaneity and deliver your presentation with the authenticity that makes a […]
Read More...What Makes A Good Presentation Great?
What makes a good presentation great? A great presentation connects with your audience, holds their attention, and has the power to delight, inspire, persuade, or inform. Exceptional speakers know how important it is to start every presentation with a compelling opening; this sets the tone for your presentation and provides momentum for everything that follows. […]
Read More...Two Ways to Connect with Your Audience – FrippVT Video
To become an effective speaker, you must learn how to connect with your audience both intellectually and emotionally. I share this brief video sample from FrippVT to help you learn more about connecting with your audience:
Read More...Public Speaking – Why Rehearse?
If you want to deliver a successful presentation, you will spend a lot more time preparing for your presentation than you will speaking. Even highly experienced speakers must devote time to preparation, including rehearsal. My friend and colleague, Rob Biesenbach names inadequate rehearsal as one of the “11 Deadly Presentation Sins.” In his recent book […]
Read More...Preparation Is Crucial in Crisis Communication
In the event of a crisis, your organization might be overwhelmed by the media or by the disaster itself; it could become nearly impossible to provide thoughtful responses and accurate information without a crisis communication plan already in place. In light of the recent and tragic loss of Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, I share this […]
Read More...Audiences Want to Connect with Real People
Misuse of technology can turn speakers into mere caption readers for slides and personal communication is lost. If your listeners could experience your presentation without you, why are you there? My colleague, Sims Wyeth author of of The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking, offers this excellent suggestion for speakers: Turn Off The Projector by Sims Wyeth
Read More...Public Speaking – Do You Focus on What Could Go Wrong?
It is mind-boggling how much time and energy some highly-intelligent, well-educated, and ambitious people put into finding creative ways to get OUT of public speaking. Public speaking is the number one tool of leadership. If you avoid public speaking at the high cost of your success, why not get the training you need to speak confidently […]
Read More...How to Close Your Presentation – Expert Presentation Advice
The first and last thirty seconds of your speech have the most impact on your audience. Last words linger. Unfortunately, there are some common mistakes you can make in closing your presentation that will actually undermine your message. Learn how to craft the closing of your presentation so that it reinforces your message. In this […]
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