Express opinion and fact in the correct settings to make your point effectively. Let’s talk about Accuracy of Language! It’s important to be precise with our words, especially when sharing opinions. Imagine you’re chatting with friends about a movie. Instead of declaring, “That movie was the worst!”, try saying, “I thought that movie was really bad.” … Read On >
During an Improving Communications workshop, I asked a question that immediately had hands flying up from participants in the room: “How many of you have ever wanted to be more assertive in the workplace but didn’t know how?” It became very clear that assertiveness is a skill many people want to master. Before anything else … Read On >
What are your eyes doing during a presentation, or even during 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 before, but using your eyes is an easy way to connect with your audience and to increase your confidence when talking.
Here are three reasons why eye contact will help you present yourself stronger in front of an audience:
Being asked to give a toast, whether at a conference, a birthday party, or a wedding, is always an honor. It sounds simple enough – just grab the microphone and say a few words in front of a group of people, some of whom you know very well and others very little. But in reality, put … Read On >
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 … Read On >
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 … Read On >
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 … Read On >
Usually the Improving Communications emails and posts focus on what you CAN DO to improve your writing or your speaking. But today we are going to focus on what NOT TO DO. But do you know the things that should be on the You Don’t Say list? When my daughter came home from her first day … Read On >
Preparing a presentation can involve a lot of solo work time. There are hours spent planning out the structure on paper, as well as moments spent practicing to an empty room. During preparation time, it’s common to ask for help. That is often done by practicing in front of colleges or friends for a round … Read On >