by Alan | Nov 21, 2007 | Communication skills, Content, Delivery, Don't!, public speaking
I’ve been asked to review some taped presentations of some technical presenters. I’ve been shown their guidelines — it’s pretty minimal. The sponsor of the program wants it “interesting”, “exciting”,...
by Alan | Nov 14, 2007 | Communication skills, Don't!, public speaking
Seth Godin brought to our attention the issue of people apologizing before their talks. I’ll rate this a TTPP (Top Ten Pet Peeve), and generalize further. It’s not just about egregious time overshoots, but any element that requires the perceived need to...
by Alan | Oct 23, 2007 | Business, Communication skills, Content, Leadership, public speaking
In my speaking, often I’m asked to share the stage with experts or others who complement the program. I have such an occasion in my current round of safety seminars. I’ve worked with several ‘experts’ who have been given instructions from the...
by Alan | Oct 22, 2007 | Communication skills, Flying, public speaking
Giving an aviation safety seminar at the airport in Blacksburg, VA tonight. Beautiful town and airport, and a packed house of locals in the house. Big game coming on Thursday, so there were some special activities in and around the town and airport. Before the...
by Alan | Sep 29, 2007 | Communication skills, Delivery, public speaking
Bonus today — two tips for the price of one!Heard a speaker do multiple sessions this weekend. That is a tough nut no matter how you crack it. Keeping people engaged is hard, and even harder across breaks and days (welcome to the life of a trainer!).This...
by Alan | Aug 14, 2007 | Communication skills, Delivery, public speaking
I try to hydrate when I speak (tip: it’s best to hydrate a day before speaking). This usually means stashing water bottles at both sides of an auditorium and having a supply at the ready in any classroom. Today I did not have a water bottle and instead chose the...
