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I write a lot about intention in this space. I realized recently that another way to think about intention is attention. Where am I placing my attention? Is my attention on myself or on the audience? Am I concerned about my own experience or theirs? When my default intention is “to get this over with” or ... Continue Reading
Nick Morgan is one of the giants in the public speaking coaching field, so I was beyond thrilled when he invited me to be on his podcast, “Just One Question.” We talk about Ignite CSP’s coaching approach, my book, and communicating clearly in the virtual world. Our six-minute video podcast is here!
You may remember that I wrote a book this year. 🙂 As you’re thinking about what to get for those last few people on your list, can I nominate “Before You Say Anything: How to Have Better Conversations, Love Public Speaking, and Finally Know What to Do with Your Hands”? I’m hearing from readers that ... Continue Reading
Most of us don’t coach high-performing sports teams. In fact, I don’t know a single head coach. But I do know that coaches need starters, and they also need players who can come in off the bench to play when the starters need to rest, are injured, or don’t have the right skillset for the ... Continue Reading
Do you ever have the experience of being sure you told someone an important something, but they don’t remember it? Or maybe you’re on other side of the exchange, with a friend or loved one insisting they mentioned a specific crucial topic to you, but you have no recollection of it? I have been noticing ... Continue Reading
The segment of a speech or presentation that gets the least attention from the speaker when they are preparing is …the closing. This makes sense! The speaker has created material and practiced it, massaged their turns of phrase and designed gorgeous slides, for 98% of the presentation. They have great points! They are telling stories! ... Continue Reading
The majority of presenters kind of sneak up on their content. They have what I call a long on-ramp. They thank people, introduce themselves, give some context around what they’ll be talking about, then finally get around to what everybody came to hear. By now, several minutes have gone by, and the presenter has wasted ... Continue Reading
You may have seen a speaker or someone at a conference say this, or you may have even said it yourself. “Well, I know I’m the only thing between you all and lunch, but I promise this will be worth it!” Or “…so I better get started.” Or some other version of this seemingly light-hearted ... Continue Reading
It’s one thing to prepare for a speech or a presentation. The environment is controlled, and there are only so many variables we have to consider. But what about when we’re in a meeting or a discussion, and something unexpected happens? Our idea is shot down, our expertise is questioned, or our leadership is challenged? ... Continue Reading
There is a trend in recent years toward more informal, conversational presentations. For the most part, I like it. Knowing that you, as the speaker, can create an atmosphere that feels more like a dialogue with the audience helps people show up confidently and soothes nerves. But too often, speakers take this informality a step ... Continue Reading
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