“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...

1.  Pause and take a deep breath in and out.  This will buy you time to collect your thoughts.  The pause will feel longer to you than it feels to the audience. 2.  Don’t panic.  You can’t get back on track unless you stay...

It depends. One job I had, many years back, required me to do a 45 minute sales training followed by a soft “pitch” to invest in additional training. Strategic parts of the presentation were customized to the client’s needs.  However, most of the pitch...

Ideally you, the speaker, should be center stage.  Unfortunately most presentation spaces are set up with the projection screen smack dab in the middle of the room.  This sets up your PowerPoint to be the center of attention not you.  This also keeps your...

Your voice is an instrument that, when used effectively, acts as a verbal yellow highlighter directing your selection panel to what is most important to remember in your presentation. You wouldn’t be able to fall asleep on a roller coaster.  The twists and turns...

Do you remember the details of a conversation you had last week?  Probably not. The audiences you present to will not remember everything you say.  Therefore it is imperative that you decide what are the most important elements you want them to retain. Questions...