Networking Skills: How to Start Conversations at Expos and Conferences

Getting Started with Networking Skills Expos, trade shows and conferences are great opportunities to build new connections in your industry. But what’s the best way to start conversations with people at these events? Here are some simple strategies to get things moving. I also discussed networking skills and a variety of tactics with Julie during … Read more

Technical Presentations: 3 Ways to Get Better at Technical Communication

office presentation

Technical Presentations Here are three strategies that you can use to improve your skill at technical presentations and communication, especially when speaking to non-technical audiences. This is a frequent challenge I see with data scientists, BI analysts, financial experts, and others from a variety of different technical fields. Many of these individuals have to present … Read more

Why Your Speaking Speed and Pacing Matters (video)

The Power of Speaking Speed When I start working with a new client, their speaking speed and pacing are two of the first things I look at. People speak very fast when they’re presenting because they’re nervous or they feel under pressure. They have an urge to just get information out as quickly as possible. … Read more

Um… Uh… A Public Speaking Coach that Uses Filler Words?! (video)

I recently had an interesting conversation with a very successful business man. We were talking about some work that we’re doing together. At one point while I was talking, he interrupted me and said “You’re using filler words! You’re a speaking speaking coach. Why are you using filler words?” And the topic of filler words … Read more

Presenting Creativity – Presentation Skills for Creatives

Presentation skills creative professionals Creatives often have to present their work to clients, senior decision-makers, or the general public. These are tactics that can apply to UX Designers presenting to non-design teams, Filmmakers and Visual Artists seeking funding, and others that have to speak with impact and influence a non-creative audience. Edited Transcript of the … Read more

How to Practice a Speech: Preparation and Rehearsal for a Presentation

office presentation

How to Practice a Speech: Key Strategies Practice and rehearsal is essential for giving a great presentation. But occasionally clients or students ask me exactly how much they should practice. Of course the correct answer varies for each person. But the short answer is that you should rehearse until you know the entire presentation by … Read more

Speaking Slowly Will Transform Your Communication

One of the most frequent changes I make with my clients is to force them to slow down when they speak. Speaking slowly, a seemingly simple adjustment, almost always creates a huge change in how they sound. But they sometimes ask: “If I slow down, will I be able to say everything I need to?” … Read more

3 Practical Ways to Gain More Social Presence

3 Practical Ways to Gain More Social PresenceWatch this video on YouTube Social Presence seems like an elusive concept. We can definitely recognize it when others have it, but it’s tough to replicate. These are practical steps you can take to build your social presence immediately. 1. Say things that are slightly risky Key word … Read more