Profitable Speech https://profitablespeech.com Welcome to Profitable Speech! Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:39:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 Time to Test Drive https://profitablespeech.com/time-to-test-drive Mon, 18 Mar 2024 13:39:32 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6497 [Image by bobtheskater of Pixabay]

Most of us understand the value of taking a test drive…but what about taking time to test drive your presentation?

If this  either is a new concept for you or one you haven’t used in some time, it’s definitely a form of practice.  You may practice whatever you wish, however I suggest you consider my ten recommendations.

  1.  Look closely at your presentation to ensure it’s well-aligned with the stated needs of your target audience.
  2.  Update your presentation (if warranted) to make the content correct, current, and meaningful.
  3.  Check all of your written material (e.g., slides, handouts, etc.) to verify appropriate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
  4. Time all segments of your presentation to verify you’re within the allotted timeframe.  Give yourself extra time since your practice will most likely be faster than the actual presentation.
  5. As part of your timing, be sure you add in approximate times for all interactive exercises.
  6. Always include a contingency plan in the event, everything doesn’t go as you planned (e.g., compatibility, power surge, technical concerns, timing delays).
  7. Deliver your presentation a minimum of three times.  Do so out loud and only deliver one part of your presentation at a time (chunking). Initially, it’s best to put your energy into your opening and closing (primacy and recency). Ultimately, you’ll want to practice the body of your content.  It’s a good idea to record your delivery (audio and visual). Once you do that, you’ll want to analyze the playback and monitor what you sound like and look like.  Remember, you can always delete until you feel satisfied with the finished product.
  8. If your presentation involves driving, have directions as well as alternate routes/maps available. Anticipate traffic delays, weather concerns, and potential detours. If possible, you may wish to include a dry run. Do a weather check so you pack what is necessary.
  9. If your presentation involves flying, check your flight for any changes at least one week prior to departure. Print out any necessary documents as needed. Once again–do a weather check so you pack what is necessary. Follow instructions carefully so you know the “rules.”
  10. If your presentation is virtual, check all your equipment in advance and be certain that you have good lighting as well as correct camera placement.

Taking your presentation on a test drive is essential for all speakers.  It adds tremendous value no matter if your presentation is long or short.  You may have other items to add to this list, however this is a good starting point and may stimulate other components you wish to include.

By the way, as a bonus, I recommend follow-up to see if there are other needs you can provide to your listeners. Perhaps there are other individuals who need your content.

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Weather is set to warm-up…do you? https://profitablespeech.com/weather-is-set-to-warm-up-do-you Mon, 11 Mar 2024 12:53:04 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6493 [Image by H.B. from Pixabay]

For those readers who live in the northeast, the meteorologists tell us we’re set to “warm-up” but the real question is do you?

In my opinion, a warm-up is absolutely an activity I believe in wholeheartedly.  After all, athletes warm-up physically to avoid potential injury.  The approach a speaker takes regarding warm-up may differ so I’ll share the ways in which I warm-up.  That will give you something to consider.

  1. Relaxation: In order for my body to be ready for any speaking engagement, I rely on the use of body scanning and meditation.  Both of these techniques make me more aware of any tension that I hope to relieve.
  2. Vocal: I use an MP3 that I created that consists of eight different exercises to help improve the flexibility of my vocal cords. This tool is one that I have shared with many of my clients and they report finding it beneficial when done consistently.
  3. Purposeful Practice: Perhaps the term chunking is familiar to you.  By chunking, I divide my message up into several parts that do not necessarily have to be linear (e.g., opening, body, closing).  By doing so, it allows me to focus my energies into one section at a time.  Once I feel confident in delivering that particular section, I move on to another component. Try to create a build effect so that one section leads to another, resulting in a larger chunk.   As I practice different chunks, I do so out loud and simultaneously record myself (audio and visual). Listening and looking closely at the playback is essential as a speaker. Another means of analysis or feedback is you may decide to either send the recording to an individual or practice with a live audience. Whether you decide to send it or deliver your message in person, be sure to only include people whom you trust and those that will use complete candor.

Each of these warm-up techniques requires extra time, however they’re so worthwhile. As you repeatedly use them, you’ll become more adept and less time will be needed.  If I may explain any of these tools in greater detail or if you have questions for a particular aspect of you presentation, I encourage you to contact me.  Together, we can find the answers and get results you need.

You may reach me electronically, by phone, virtually, or in-person: dale@profitablespeech.com or 518-664-6004.

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Communication Style: Right or Wrong? https://profitablespeech.com/communication-style-right-or-wrong Mon, 04 Mar 2024 14:17:54 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6488 [Image by Gerd Altmann of Pixabay]

If you’re one of my readers, you already know that we can communicate in a variety of ways.  Different situations warrant different communication styles.  Sometimes a direct style is indicated while at times a more indirect style may be more suitable.  Did you know that there is room for both direct and indirect communication?  There is—however blending the two may be more difficult for some.

An excellent resource for this is Marianne Slotboom of Yellow Training. Ms. Slotboom offers these five guidelines for blending both direct and indirect communication styles:

  1. Become aware that communicating with both types of individuals is possible with the right amount of effort.
  2. Increase your understanding that there isn’t a right way or a wrong way to interact with others.
  3. Know that we each have biases and therefore delaying judgement is strongly recommended.
  4. Increase your knowledge of ways respect is demonstrated even though it may differ from how you are accustomed to respect being displayed.
  5. Consciously practice the style of communication that is new for you.  By doing this, you will increase your flexibility as well as come to realize advantages associated with each form of communication.

If you’re more of a direct communicator, it is advised that you avoid making blunt remarks and pay close attention to nonverbal signals. If you’re more of an indirect communicator, realize that your subtle messages may not be perceived as intended…if perceived at all. Ms. Slotboom concludes that in our quest for “culturally intelligent teams” one has to be both comfortable in their own skin as well as cognizant of which of their communication behaviors needs to be modified.

This post is intended as food for thought.  What do you think? Clearly, there is room for both direct and indirect communication styles.  It comes down to knowing about the person (or people) with whom you’re communicating as well as being able to switch your communication style as needed.

If I may assist you with your communication style please let me know and I’ll make myself available to you or to your staff.

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Dressing Authentically https://profitablespeech.com/dressing-authentically Mon, 26 Feb 2024 13:45:20 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6483 [Image by Gerd Altmann of Pixabay]

Many questions arise when it comes to how to dress for business functions such as…What should I wear? Are these shoes okay? Does this need to be ironed?  The list can go on and on as we ponder how to groom ourselves for an event.

In two months I’ll be conducting a networking presentation to a large group of business professionals so this topic has a lot of meaning to me. Several years ago there were pretty clear cut “rules” when it came to the various areas of grooming.  Much has changed in that period of time and will continue to change so here are some ideas to consider.

  1. Does what I’m thinking of wearing fit me the way I think it should?
  2. Does my hair look clean?
  3. Can I easily close my zipper?
  4. Is my garment wrinkled?
  5. Should I wear a fragrance or scent?
  6. Will my make-up last several hours or should I reapply it?
  7. If I send my garment to be dry-cleaned, are the buttons intact?
  8. How do I feel in these shoes?
  9. Is my breath fresh and how do I keep it that way?
  10. Do my nails look acceptable?

These are some of the grooming tips my clients think about so I help they’re of assistance to you.  If you work for an employer you have the option of consulting with Human Resources and going with their dress code.  If that doesn’t apply to you then something to keep in mind is feeling authentic.  When you do, you’ll feel fabulous and that leads to coming across more confidently.

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Your Communication Check-Up https://profitablespeech.com/your-communication-check-up Mon, 19 Feb 2024 14:43:14 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6479 [Image by QurratulAyin from Pixabay]

Most likely all of us have had a health check-up…or at least we try to.

My guess is that very few of us have taken the time for a Communication Check-Up.  Good news is that is about to change.  Here are the details you need to know:

WHAT: Your Communication Check-up

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 2024 at 12:00 p.m. EST

WHERE: Schenectady location of Capital Region Chamber of Commerce

If you’ve never had your communication check-up or may be wondering what to expect here’s what you can look forward to discovering.  Communication is the “secret sauce” to many aspects of what we do professionally but it’s vitally important to be an effective leader.  It all comes down to the difference between the words talk and S.P.E.A.K.  In this workshop, those in attendance will use the word S.P.E.A.K. as an acronym and learn ten invaluable communication guidelines.

Why talk when you can S.P.E.A.K.?  Hope to see all of you there!

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How do you spell S.U.P.E.R.V.I.S.O.R.? https://profitablespeech.com/how-do-you-spell-s-u-p-e-r-v-i-s-o-r Mon, 12 Feb 2024 14:01:59 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6472 [Image by no-longer-here of Pixabay]

The word supervisor may have different meanings depending on the source you use.  Here’s how I spell the word supervisor:

S= Support Staff

U=Update Staff

P=Problem  Solve

E=Ensure Equity

R=Respect Differences

V=Visualize Outcomes

I=Invite Feedback

S=Set Goals

O=Offer Feedback

R=Repair Communication Breakdowns

This is certainly not intended as an exhaustive list. Rather, it is meant as a quick self-check in the form of an acronym.

Recommended steps are:

  1. As you go through each letter and the corresponding skill, turn each of the ten items into a question (i.e., Do you support your staff?  Do you update your staff? Do you problem solve with your staff?).
  2. As you answer each question, rate yourself with a corresponding response of Yes, No, or Unsure.
  3. Compare your responses to other individuals to learn more.
  4. If you answered No or Unsure, try to discover how other people handle this skill.

A personal favorite of mine is the last item:

Do you repair communication breakdowns? It’s natural for communication breakdowns to occur.  The skill is having the tools to repair them when they do break down.  In my experience, it often comes down to practicing effective active listening. Usually we’re distracted or in a hurry and as a result, we may miss critical information. You can change that by asking for repetition, taking notes, or paraphrasing what you think you heard. Yes, it takes longer but the dividends that it pays are worthwhile.

Being a supervisor requires a willingness to learn, practice, and diligence. Using this acronym is an excellent starting point and may be exactly what you need now.  Feel free to supplement this list, as needed.  It’s also a good idea to revisit this acronym as your responses may change.

Whether you’re a newly appointed supervisor or more of a seasoned supervisor, reviewing this list can put you on the pathway to success.  As always, if you opt to discuss this or have questions or comments, you’re welcome to contact me.

Can’t wait to hear from you!

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What’s Your Secret Weapon? https://profitablespeech.com/whats-your-secret-weapon Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:27:00 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6469 [Image: Pixabay]

What if I told you that each of us has a secret weapon at our disposal?  You may opt not to use it however, we all have it and may choose to use it. That secret weapon is our communication.

You may be surprised to know the super power of communication, but it has tremendous value if used well.  To tell you what that entails, I’ll explain further.  Effective communication includes your choice of verbiage, body language, visual aids, medium, and biases. Technical skills are expected but the addition of skills in communication (both verbal and written) gets the job done right. And that’s what really counts.

Any career you opt to pursue may require a combination of skills in writing, listening, public speaking, critical thinking, negotiating, and problem solving.  This list is what will set you apart from your competition so keep it up to date at all times and strengthen an area or areas, if warranted.

It’s imperative that you use your communication to:

  1. Build trust at varying levels throughout the organization.
  2. Customize your message so that it resonates with your listeners.
  3. Give the big picture first before diving into details, as warranted.
  4. Strive to engage your client to ensure meaningful dialog is created.
  5. Explain complex ideas in easily understood and memorable terms.
  6. Use demonstrations, metaphors, analogies, and storytelling to help illustrate your points.
  7. Prioritize all your findings/recommendations in a sensible and logical way.
  8. Show actionable ideas that can be modeled.
  9. Periodically ask the audience for their questions as well as their comments.
  10. Summarize your findings as a way of recapping ideas, to help audiences retain what you’ve said.

When you consider all the possible fields that are available for you to pursue (e.g., cybersecurity, financial management, healthcare, construction, IT) this information applies across the board.

Think of your communication as your “secret weapon” and know that it gives you an edge that makes you very desirable and usually selected by companies.

**Input: P. Raquel B. of LinkedIn

 

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Remember to Improve Your Memory https://profitablespeech.com/remember-to-improve-your-memory Sun, 28 Jan 2024 18:38:26 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6457 [Image by WikimediaImages of Pixabay]

Most of us probably wish our memory was something like duct tape meaning it had a sticky quality to it. In that way, we could easily remember what we wanted when we wanted.  Unfortunately, that’s not the case for many people.

A few years ago the owners of my gym asked me to conduct a presentation for a segment of their customers.  My idea was to talk about improving memory and they liked it.  Here’s what I had to say:

Let’s understand what memory is.  Memory is the activity of recalling information that you either learned or experienced. We have two types of memory; short-term and long-term. Each of us has three brain-parts that help with memory.  They include the hippocampus, the amygdala and the cerebral cortex.

Please know that there are five healthy lifestyle habits that support our memory and they are:

  1. regular exercise (e.g., Yoga, Tai Chi) increases oxygen to the brain and decreases the risk of disease
  2. stress management
  3. good sleep habits
  4. not smoking
  5. eating healthy foods (e.g., fruits, grains, vegetables, healthy fats) and avoiding sodium

Additionally, there are ten strategies to strengthen our memory which include:

  1. paying attention (e.g., eliminating distractions, being fully present)
  2. catering to your learning style
  3. involving as many of your senses as possible
  4. associating new information to something you already know
  5. organizing information into categories and taking notes
  6. telling someone else what you’ve learned
  7. over-learning
  8. creating memory spots in your home or office so that you consistently store items in the same location
  9. flexing your brain muscle (e.g., crossword puzzles, learning a new language or instrument, driving an alternate route, playing cards)
  10. having a positive attitude (e.g., telling yourself you can learn vs. saying I’m too old or I’m having a senior moment)

So the next time you misplace an object (e.g., your keys, your phone)…please consider improving your memory by using the information that you’ve read here.  If I may assist you with improving your memory for business communication, I’d be happy to help you or members of your team.

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Are you an Exceptional Exhibitor? https://profitablespeech.com/are-you-an-exceptional-exhibitor Wed, 24 Jan 2024 14:46:47 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=6447 [Image by Gerd Altmann]

Many folks think they know how to exhibit; maybe they do and maybe they don’t. They believe it’s all about small talk.  Well, it is however, in my experience, small talk leads to big business.

Being an exceptional exhibitor involves three distinct phases which include:

  • Phase 1:  Your plan before the exhibit
  • Phase 2: Your plan during the exhibit
  • Phase 3: Your plan after the exhibit

Much of our success depends on asking the right questions, particularly of ourselves and our team. For example, in phase 1 ask yourself–Who’s your ideal customer/client and how does this factor in when determining where you’ll exhibit?  Ask yourself--What exhibition goals have you set? What questions will you add to this phase?

In phase 2, ask yourself–How are you attracting prospects to your booth and keeping them engaged? Ask yourself–What does your body language communicate and are you fully present? What questions will you add to this phase?

In phase 3, ask yourself–How will you debrief or evaluate you and your team’s effectiveness as an exhibitor? Ask yourself–What’s your timeline for following up on leads; do you prioritize based on urgency? What questions will you add to this phase?

Since you’re reading this post, now’s a good time to think about how you’ll challenge yourself to become an exceptional exhibitor. Consider the varied costs associated with exhibiting such as: travel, salary, food, supplies, and your booth.  They can be pretty astronomical when it comes to your budget!

Therefore, the best route to ensuring your ROI (return on investment) is by being an exceptional exhibitor. When you do…you’ll be setting yourself apart from your competitors.  We all know that our customers/clients have a choice in whom they’ll select.  By being the business that people select, we turn small talk into big business.

Now, go out there and be an exceptional exhibitor! We both know you can do it.

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Do your best to Unlock https://profitablespeech.com/do-your-best-to-unlock Mon, 15 Jan 2024 20:12:24 +0000 https://profitablespeech.com/?p=5211 [Image by cocoparisienne of Pixabay]

As a public speaker, do you use metaphors?  If not, I highly recommend trying them as a tool to unlock the imagination of your listener(s). They can be quite powerful in getting your message across.

Metaphors may be used in writing and speaking and serve as a valuable technique when used correctly.  You may want to think of metaphors as figurative language that help to compare two seemingly unrelated or distinct concepts.  In so doing, the writer or speaker adds more clarity, more color, and more imagination.

For example, in a motivational quote “The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change.  The leader adjusts the sails.”  –John Maxwell

In poetry, “Two roads diverged in a wood–and I–I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference.”  –Robert Frost

Everyday metaphors are “Life is a highway.” “She is an early bird.”

By using metaphors, the writer or speaker adds a layer of vividness that is so often needed and too often missing.  The more vivid your use of language the greater the chance of holding the attention of your audience.  Naturally, it helps to use metaphors that are easily understood and very relatable to the reader or listener you’re trying to reach.

The next time you’re going to address an audience with public speaking, consider using metaphors to spice up your message.  Not only will you stand out and be memorable but you’re potentially going to unlock the imagination of your listener.

 

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