For most presentations, we have way more content than time available.  Some presenters try to cram more into their presentation by increasing the rate of speech.  This is a mistake.  When information comes at us too fast, we don’t have time to process it...

That depends. If answering the question requires input from a specialist who is not in attendance at the interview: Let the panel know that the specialist will likely have the best answer to that question and you will contact that individual immediately upon leaving...

I was working with a general contractor recently who said, “Don’t take this personally, but I hate practicing, I hate presenting, the only thing I like is the relief I feel when it is over.” His statement may resonate with some of you readers....

Yes and no.  While earning my Master’s Degree in Speech Communication at the University of Texas at Austin, I learned some theories related to persuasion: The Primacy Effect suggests that the information we hear first is more likely to have sticking power. Alternately, the...

There are certain times in your presentation when it is a good idea to slow down the rate at which you speak.  When painting a picture you want to make sure your audience does not miss any details, therefore take your time describing it. ...

“Presentations are a tool for high-stakes internal and external communications. Presentations all too often reflect the agenda of the presenter rather than build a connection with the audience.  This is unfortunate because presentations could be considered the last branding frontier, in terms of both...

This is one reason why rehearsing your presentation is so critical.  Practicing increases the likelihood that you will stay on track and hit your key points without getting a case of verbal vomit.  However, if it does happen use this simple strategy: 1.    Stop...

Speaker transitions can be made more smooth and effective by: 1. Having the current speaker, we’ll call her Jane, introduce the upcoming speaker: “I’d now like to have Bob Jenson, your Project Superintendent come up and discuss our phasing plan.” 2. As the speakers...

Some speakers demonstrate their discomfort in their voice. Most often, when we are nervous or uncomfortable we go higher in our vocal register.  The solution is to go much lower in the vocal register temporarily without getting monotone.  This will have a calming affect...

Sincerity is paramount to your message having an impact.  If a speaker comes across insincere, we tend to discredit the speaker and dismiss their message.  No one will buy your message until they buy you. Let’s take the example, “I am passionate about working...