NO Buzz Words! Buzz Words are composed of jargon that is usually specific to a particular industry. Often we think of the tech industry or medical profession having buzz words, acronyms and jargon that many non-techs can’t understand. The truth is that many occupations, generations of people, industries, clubs, Read More
Practicing
Toastmasters – A great place to learn!
Join Toastmasters! Toastmasters is an international organization. The latest figures I found show they have a membership approaching 250,000 in more than 12,500 clubs in 106 countries. One of the most valuable benefits of being a member is the nurturing environment where everyone truly wants to help the other Read More
The Fear of Public Speaking & Giving Presentations
If just the thought of speaking in front of a group gets you nervous - You are not alone! Survey after survey says many people would rather die than give a speech. It's the Fear of Public Speaking! Actually, some nervous energy is good to have! Harness it, and turn it into enthusiasm for your subject. In Read More
When Presenting, We Want Them to GET IT!
The Ultimate Goal of All Communication: Written, Spoken or Visual, is that the audience, as quickly as possible, - "Gets It!" If they don't understand your message, good communication can't go much further. The audience may not agree with everything you said. They may not agree with anything you said. But if Read More
Practicing a Speech
We've all heard the expression, "Practice makes perfect." It's not true. Perfect practice makes perfect. However, and I don't know where I read this, "The road to perfection never ends." That statement aside, the mantra we've all heard from coaches, teachers, and parents, is: "Practice, Practice Read More
Speech Content – Part #3 – Speech Opening
Make it Powerful!
We've all heard the expression, "There's only one chance to make a first impression!" This is it! The Opening of Your Speech is your first impression to your audience. It literally, 'sets the stage' for your presentation. Very quickly, the audience is going to be on the edge of their seats, either breathlessly Read More
Using Props in a Presentation
Props can add to the delivery and message of a speech. Since people learn in many ways, the more senses your speech can combine in your presentation, the more likely your audience will "Get" your message. Props add the 'visual element' to a speech. They can take many forms, including: clothing, musical Read More
I Want Them To Remember My Speech!
Proven ways to get your points across and for the audience to remember your message. Primacy and Recency People will better remember the first and last things you say. This is why it is so important to have a strong opening and strong closing to your speech. Repetition Repeat - Repeat - Repeat The more often we Read More
Props Help the Audience “See” Your Points – Maybe!
Since people learn in different ways, the more senses incorporated into your presentation, the better the meaning of your speech will be conveyed and information retained. However, no prop, sound or scent will ever come close to what your "brain" can see, hear or smell. I once heard the late Gene Siskel and Roger Read More