November 2017

Put down the megaphone!

I had a busy October prepping clients for a wide variety of speeches. But one thing all these preparations had in common: we started by framing each speech as a conversation, no matter how formal the setting. Read about how and why in my latest blog.

 Tips you can use!

Little word does big harm

"Just" and the words that often follow it ("I just wanted to see if you had time to look over...") need to be eliminated from your vocabulary. They dilute your intention and make you seem unsure. Get to the point. If you have a question, ask. If you have a statement, make it. Don't beat around the bush. Saves time, too!

You need to eat

Many folks right now are dieting in preparation for the Holiday FoodFest. And most of us could benefit from more awareness about what we're eating. But the truth is your brain needs glucose to work. If you get too hungry your thinking may become fuzzy or muddled and your communications will all suffer.

Practice may not make perfect, but. . .

It sure helps you feel more present, more connected, more in the moment. But you know this. So do it!

October 2017

 These myths have got to go!

I spend a lot of my time debunking myths about public speaking. I can't believe that in 2017 some of these are still being passed off as "conventional wisdom" to unsuspecting clients. But they are. Read my blog to find out the two things you need to stop doing TODAY to become a better speaker.

Another thing you can do is work with me at my fall Executive Communications Skills: One-Day Blitz! More info here.

Tips you can use!

 

Three points or you're out!

Make only three main points per speech. Any more and the audience won't remember or follow what you're saying. If you have several points to make, see how you can chunk them into three broader categories. Your message will be "stickier" that way!

Get the words in your mouth

Practice might not make it perfect, but it helps a lot!  You need to say what you're going to say: get in in your mouth. It sounds obvious, I know, but how many times have you heard speakers stumble over or mispronounce words? These things get cleared up by actual physical practice, not just reading your speech over in your head.

Don't fade into the background

If you will be giving a speech where you'll be on a stage or a dais with a backdrop, ask what color it will be. You don't want to show up in your signature black outfit only to realize you'll be standing in front of a black drape, do you? Add this question to your list as you gather info about other venue specifics (size of room, podium vs. lectern, type of mic, etc.). 

September 2017

 Unjumble your language

 In my September blog I offer one big tip for making communincation clearere: cut out the jargon!

I had a lovely August vacation, and am back at work at client stes and in my home studio. You can come work with me at my fall Executive Communications Skills: One-Day Blitz! More info here.

Tips you can use!

  

Don't hold your breath!

Breath-holding is a natural impulse while listening in situations like high-stakes meetings where you may be stressed or nervous. But it takes you out of the moment so you can't be an active listener. Breathe and connect.

Be picture perfect

Most postures that are good for photographs are inimical to good speaking. Any number of artful poses that work for still shots won't project ease, much less authority, when you speak. Stand tall, with a properly aligned spine and weight on both feet, and you'll convey the energy of your message. Then if a candid is taken while you're speaking, it will show you at your best: animated and engaged.

Use colorful words

After you've tapped your vibrant vocabulary to craft your speech or talking points, use color in a more practical way: to help with your organizational flow. Print your notes using different colored fonts for each main point. You'll stay focused as you visually track your text.