Choosing the right word will guarantee that you will convey exactly what you mean, whereas choosing the incorrect word can sound wrong or can change the meaning of the statement. When do you use “input” or “enter”? What about the difference between “back-up” or “replacement”? How about “fix” or “resolve”? Ensure that words and expressions you […]
How you design your presentation can determine the success of the messages you want to share with your audience. This includes your visuals, from photos to graphs and charts. According to a study from Microsoft Corp, people lose concentration after only eight seconds. The information in this week’s email can help you create engaging presentations […]
Your Voice’s Quality & Power How you use your voice can determine the success of your presentation. This includes your vocal quality and use of pauses or silence. The information in this week’s email applies to Public Speaking as much as it applies to your small-group interactions and phone calls. The listener can learn a […]
Express opinion and fact in the correct settings to make your point effectively. For example, when expressing an opinion among friends, instead of saying that something “is the best,” say, “I think it is the best.” Here is where phrases like “I feel,” “I think,” and “I believe”work very well. You’re sharing a belief with friends. It’s fine to use those examples […]
While leading an Improving Communications workshop recently, I asked a question that had hands flying up toward the sky from participants in the room: “How many of you have ever wanted to be more assertive in the workplace but didn’t know how?” To be more assertive was something everyone wanted to work on. But the […]
What are your eyes doing during a presentation or a conversation? Think about it. Are they looking down at your hands or your notes? Do they gaze out the window or over the heads of the audience? Or are you staring at just one person the entire time you’re speaking? Maybe you’ve never considered it […]
The act of giving a toast, whether at an event, a party, or a wedding, is an honor. While it may seem simple to grab the microphone and talk in front of a room filled with people, some of whom you know very well and others very little, it can require a bit of work. […]
One of the biggest benefits of hearing someone speak live is the opportunity to meet and greet afterwards. Suddenly, you have access to someone you admire or is an expert in a topic you are curious about. Guide the conversation with an organized approach! Make the most out of the few minutes you have with that […]
Speaking on the phone can feel unusual. It can feel like you are talking to yourself, since no visible audience is present. Whether you are speaking to one person, or a conference call of fifteen people, you want to make sure your voice is heard. Make sure your telephone voice is loud – but not […]
Ask yourself this question: If you could give a presentation on any topic, to any audience, what would it be? You’ve had an idea for a presentation in mind for quite some time, or maybe you know someone in your company or organization is going to ask you to take the stage in the […]