Preparing to give a presentation is a very personal experience. We all have our own routines, tics, and superstitions that help us to feel confident and ready to speak to a crowd. Perhaps you need twenty minutes of solitary silence before taking the stage, or you’re convinced that an extra shot of espresso prior to…
In a world where work is never “off” and going unplugged feels like a luxury, it’s only natural that the lines between professional and informal communication become blurred. After all, if you’re already answering emails on the beach, it’s not a far stretch to send an inquiry to a coworker via Facebook Messenger. Before sending…
Which activity do you think is more difficult – speaking or listening? While many would answer speaking, listening – and more importantly, listeningwith intent – is actually far more difficult. Think of it this way: in the last conversation you held, how much of what the other person said do you actually remember? Chances are, you…
In Dale Carnegie’s opinion, it is not possible to win an argument. In his eyes, if you lose it, well, you obviously lose it. But if you win it? Carnegie believes you’ve still lost. “Well suppose you triumph over the other man and shoot his argument full of holes and prove that he is non…
As you build your public speaking prowess, people will come to take for granted how much time, effort, and preparation goes into your presentations. They’ll assume that you’re constantly ready to wow an audience at the drop of a hat, and are likely to call on you to do so. All of a sudden, you’re…
Whether you’re addressing a large audience or chatting one-on-one at a networking event, it’s important that you’re displaying confidence. Being poised and in control helps to ensure that you’re taken seriously by your audience, and can make the difference between closing the deal or walking away empty-handed. Here are four ways to use your body…
If you’ve ever wondered what it is about popular people that makes them so magnetic, here are five of their key habits. They are present. These days, it’s common to walk into a meeting just before it officially starts to find most participants nose-down staring at their laptop or smart phone screens. Or perhaps a…
Many people don’t realize that we communicate with much more than words. Our nonverbal communication, orbody language, which includes our facial expressions, gestures, eye contact, posture, and even our voice inflection are critical to message delivery. In fact, a person’s voice inflection, facial expressions and body language can make up over 90% of their message. Whenever you are face-to-face…
Public speaking is the #1 fear in America according to the Wall Street Journal. If you have an upcoming public speaking opportunity, follow these five tips to thwart anxiety and instead, deliver a speech your audience won’t forget—and one you’ll be proud to have given. Practice until you’re comfortable in front of a crowd. Dale Carnegie said,…
Did you know that your body language can help or hurt your level of success? Surprisingly, your voice inflection, facial expressions and body language comprise up to 90% of your message. Body language or nonverbal communication is extremely important in business given that humans produce over1: 700,000 signs 5,000 distinct hand gestures 250,000 facial expressions…