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
Speaking/Presenting
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
Taking Questions
Often, speakers start taking questions after they've completed their talk. Usually, this is not the best time to do this because the audience doesn't leave having the impact of your closing on the their minds. In fact, depending upon the questions and answers. they could exit with a completely different mindset then 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
“Meet and Greet”
To Ease the “Fear of Public Speaking!”
Here's a good tip! You're much more at ease speaking to people you know and friends. Arrive at your speaking event early. Wear a Name Tag - It's important! Meet and greet the people who came to see and hear your talk. If they're wearing a name tag, call them by name. Ask their name if they are not wearing one. Thank 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
Speech Content – Part #2
Why Write Your Own Introduction
The Introduction is an integral part of your speech! It should not be taken casually. It’s importance, however, is often overlooked. The introduction sets the stage for your opening and your speech. An Introduction should answer three questions. Why this Subject? Why this Speaker? Why Now? Why this Read More