When undertaking a presentation, we plan for success. We should also be thinking about and preparing for things that could go wrong. Before you host a virtual workshop, teach an online class, make a video, give a presentation or live-stream, …
Phone calls will always remain a key part of business communications. Whether you are making a sales pitch, connecting with a long-standing client, or doing an initial job interview, having strong phone skills will help you achieve your goal. Preparation: …
My Top 5 Tips for How to Make Effective and Productive Phone Calls. Read more »
Body language is a critical part of our public speaking skills. In business meetings, before we open our mouths, our body language speaks volumes. When business is conducted virtually, we need to remind ourselves we aren’t alone but part of …
Make Sure Your Body Language Is Sending the Right Message in Meetings. Read more »
There are occasions when a speaker has to work from a prepared script. However, the goal is still to come across as natural and authentic while maintaining good eye contact. To ensure you engage and connect with your audience, follow …
How to Read Your Speech or Presentation and Still Sound Natural. Read more »
Business speaking requires a level of professionalism. When a speaker introduces a weak speech pattern, it can hurt their credibility and undermine their message. The three key patterns to avoid are: Hedges: sort of, kind of, pretty much, maybe. These words …
When asked to give a toast, most speakers know the obvious do’s and don’t’s; keep it clean, don’t talk about yourself, don’t embarrass anyone, and don’t drink until you have given the toast. Here are some not obvious tips that …
Effective speakers and presenters build ‘signposts’ into their speech. They guide their listeners through the information by using words that make it clear what lies ahead, and then as they progress, alerting them to where they are along the way. …
Most business owners know the benefits of appearing as interview guests. Whether it is on a social media platform or in more traditional media, these appearances can bring real value to the business. As you prepare for that interview, it …
Two Ways to Stay on Message During Media Interviews. Read more »
Occasionally, business speakers need to give a presentation that will require a lot of time. When faced with an hour-long presentation, they worry about how they will keep their colleagues’ attention. This is the time to consider building in rest stops; …
Why You Should Build Breaks Into Long Presentations. Read more »
If you give a lot of business presentations, you will eventually make a mistake. However, the takeaway is not the error; it is how you handle the error. There are two main kinds of presentation mistakes, those your listeners witness …
You’ve Made a Mistake in Your Presentation, Now What? Read more »