The Question & Answer technique was my new hammer but – as tempting as it was – not every communication needed to be hit on the head with it. Read more
Public speaking (Part 1): Engage
Many people are frightened of public speaking. Surveys suggest that people fear speaking in front of an audience more than they fear death! As the American comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, pointed out, it means that, for many people at a funeral, they would rather be in the coffin than giving a eulogy. Read more
Public speaking (Part 3): Encapsulate
Ideally, you will finish on something which reflects the essence of your talk, so that the audience regards the presentation as complete. You will signal your ending clearly, so that the audience knows it’s time for them to show their appreciation. And you will leave them wanting more. Read more
Writing an article
One of the great joys I have obtained from writing articles over so many years is the opportunity it gives me to vary my style (or my “voice”) according to the outlet I am writing for. When I started article-writing in earnest, my day job demanded that I communicate with clients in the formal style beloved of my employers. So the chance to be “me” – and to explore who I might be – generated a wonderful sense of freedom. Read more