When you see this photo of a dog, what comes to mind for you? You could either say “I see a dog looking at something.“…or you could say “I see a smaller dog who looks longingly with his big brown eyes.” These two statements are both accurate, however the second one is much more visually … Read More
What do you think of when you hear the word challenge? It may be negative or better yet, perhaps it’s positive. Challenge is one of those words that can affect each of us differently. As a professional speaker who wants to improve, it’s imperative to challenge yourself. For example, do you: Consistently seek meaningful feedback regarding … Read More
When I coach clients who are seeking to improve their presentation skills, I often refer to adding their 1, 2 punch! Do you know what I mean? Your 1,2 punch may differ from mine which is exactly what should happen. The main point is that you want to deliver something extra, maybe even unpredictable. By … Read More
Whether it’s numerology, a horseshoe or a 4-leaf clover…some of us believe in luck. This week on Ted.com, I heard an interesting speaker, Tina Seelig, a Stamford engineering professor, share the little risks you can take to increase your luck. It struck me that this topic would resonate with many of my readers, like you. … Read More
For some, change is scary. It represents making a choice and taking a chance. Typically there are no guarantees, which in part is why some individuals avoid change. But is that wise? Perhaps not. One of the reasons I enjoy being a communication coach is that it’s an opportunity to learn from my clients. Among … Read More
Ever since establishing Profitable Speech in 1994 two prominent questions my clients raise are: when to have the question & answer component of the presentation and how to best solicit questions from the audience. My guess is that most of the speakers you’ve heard have their question & answer at the very end of their … Read More
This morning I attended a business event that featured a local speaker who told several effective stories and had the ability to inspire the crowd. So I wondered…why did he start and end by saying “thank you“? Unfortunately, too often this phrase (thank you) has become the default for many speakers. Many of us … Read More
How many of you are fans of the popular TV show Shark Tank? In case you’re unfamiliar with this program, it airs on Friday evenings and consists of 5 high net-worth entrepreneurs who are seeking to invest in sound businesses. Contestants are a diverse group of individuals who “pitch” their business idea to the sharks … Read More
Think back to a recent time when you were listening to someone speak (whether in a conversation or during a presentation); did you ever feel confused, lost or unclear? If so, this is a clear sign that the speaker lacked effective use of transitions. While this is quite common, it should and can be rectified. … Read More
Don’t let this 12-letter word throw you; its origin is Greek, emanating from the two words glossa (tongue) and phobos (fear or dread). By now you realize that glossophobia, which is a mouthful in and of itself, refers to fear of public speaking. If this is an issue for you, it may help to know … Read More