Speech coaching

Here’s one of my public speaking pet peeves: Don’t tell us you’re going to speak for 5 minutes (and then go on to speak for 20). This happened at a huge event recently (and it got worse when the speaker kept asking if his 5 minutes was up yet). Yes, I know: The speaker was […]

Do you know how to get on and off the stage with grace when you’re one of several public speakers delivering remarks or making presentations? Here are three public speaking rules to ensure your next event flows seamlessly from one speaker to the next.   Rule 1: When you’re finished speaking, introduce the next speaker – and […]

Most people don’t realize how fast they’re speaking unless someone else brings it to their attention.  This is a problem because when people can’t keep up, they tune out.   Here are two reasons why you may be speaking too fast.   1 – You’re not thrilled with your content. If you lack confidence in […]

Will you be one of several public speakers sharing the stage at an upcoming business event? To avoid awkward moments at public speaking events and ensure your next program flows without flaws from one speaker to the next, take a moment to check in with the event planner before the big day. 1 – Look […]

The applause has ended, and your keynote presentation is over. How are you feeling? Did it go well? Could your keynote presentation have gone better? How do you know? Public speakers should always seek continuous improvement. Here are three simple things you need to do for yourself after you deliver your next keynote presentation. 1 […]

Have you ever attended an event with a cadre of amazing speakers – one after the next – that still felt a bit stilted? Disjointed? Disorganized? Even downright awkward? Maybe that’s because the emcee was far less than exceptional. As a speechwriter, speech coach and author, I’ve been asked more than once to emcee professional […]

Have you ever heard a public speaker say these things? “Look at this chart on the screen. You probably can’t read it, but …” Or how about this? “I’m a numbers guy, so I apologize now if this seems a little complicated.” Or this? “I’ll be throwing a lot of data at you, so get […]

It was an unforgettable afternoon keynote – but for all the wrong reasons. Turns out I couldn’t understand a word she was saying.  Clearly she had the clout to wow us with something wonderful. And indeed she started out OK, engaging us with a story about her best friend Steve. But then – like a […]

Last Sunday I discovered a way to make sure not one word is wasted when you write your next speech. Imagine someone will have to sign every word you speak for people who are deaf. Last Sunday I watched and listened, on the edge of my seat, in absolute amazement while Fr. Benjamin Jimenez spoke […]