10 Ways Professional Speaking is Different than Toastmasters
Have you thought about becoming a professional speaker–speaking as a way to share your expertise, or your inspiration? Perhaps you are a Toastmaster and have wondered how being a professional speaker is different than being a Toastmaster. I’ve been a Toastmaster for ten years, and a professional speaker for two. Here are the top […]
Improve Your Image, Improve Your Business
People form first impressions in a fraction of a second. Before you say a word, your image speaks volumes. You can go to this website to improve your marketing tenfold but this will only help so much if you’re not providing a very good first impression when you speak to your clients. You could generate […]
Tips for Presentation Handouts
To have a handout or not? That is the question. Almost any presentation could be enhanced with a handout. Handout benefits to the presenter: Your presentation will be more memorable Audience members can easily contact you Establishes your credibility Shows that you care about the audience You can have additional information on the handout A […]
Speech Inspiration from Your Favorite Childhood Book
Find inspiration for your speeches from your favorite childhood books. What significant, life-long lessons or quotes have endured into adulthood? Let your childhood speak to you as you prepare speeches. I think I was in third grade when I started reading the book, The Little Prince. When I received the book as a gift, I […]
YOLO Speaking
YOLO, an acronym that’s been popular among mostly younger people for the past year or so, stands for “You Only Live Once.” It seems to be an excuse for risky behavior. Have they forgotten you actually get to live every day, but you only die once? The sentiment is a recent version of “Carpe Diem.” […]
Humor Lessons from Stand Up Comedy
Do you want to add some punch to your presentations? Do you want to leave your audience laughing?Or at least keep them awake? Add some humor! People are more receptive when they are laughing. I know what some of you are thinking. “But I’m not funny! I can’t even tell a joke!” Forget about trying to […]
Speech prop idea: Balloons
The full-size red ladder was an impressive prop. It was unique and it helped make the speaker’s point that to have a competitive advantage you not only have to be better you have to be different. Props can differentiate you as a speaker, making you and your concepts more memorable, giving you that competitive advantage. […]
Can They Hear You Now?
You’ve spent hours perfecting your presentation. You have crafted engaging content. You have practiced your delivery. You will have wasted your time if your audience can’t hear you. Three of the top reasons that the audience might not hear you are: Inadequate amplification (or distorted amplification) Background noise Hearing impairment Inadequate amplification Many speakers think […]
How to Smile More During Your Presentation
“When I see pictures or video of myself speaking, I look mean! Frankly, I look like a bitch,” said my new presentation client. “I smile in conversation, when I’m off stage, but I don’t smile enough during my presentations. What can I do?” My client clearly knew the value of connecting with her audience through […]
Smile More to Persuade
With very little effort, you can become a more persuasive speaker. It’s as simple as smiling more. Even the shortest of exposures to a smiling face can influence decisions. In a research project discussed in Francesca Gino’s recent book, Sidetracked: Why Our Decisions Get Derailed, and How We Can Stick to the Plan, college students […]