Eyes are the 'Windows to the Soul'. They are the first things we use for non-verbal communication when we meet someone. The same applies when speaking to a group of people. 'Look me in the eye!' 'The eyes have it!' The first thing to do, after taking the lectern, and before beginning your talk, is to find a Read More
Communications
Non-Verbal Communication Element #1 –
Buzz Words
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
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
Sometimes the Best Prop is – None!
Props, as I've stated before, can be a great addition to a speech. If I were to take a coffee cup, and put it on a lectern, and say, "I'm going to speak about coffee today," your eyes would look at the cup, hear my words, and wait for the next verbiage. But if I said, "Picture you favorite coffee cup," your mind Read More
Handouts – Hand them out Later!
If you 'hand out' Handouts as the audience is getting seated, they'll be looking at your brochure, fact sheet, contact information, etc., while you're giving your presentation. This can be as bad as having the door to a noisy kitchen open or the the lights go out as you're demonstrating something. A speech is always 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
WHY Speak?
Why in the world would you want to get up in front of strangers, or for that matter, in front of people you know, and risk embarrassing yourself? Actually, there are many reasons to do this. First of all, if you speak in front of a group, people tend to consider you to be an expert on the subject. Speaking is a great way 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