Is it possible for a self-confessed introvert to have the courage to speak for 18 minutes on the prestigious TED stage? Susan Cain did just that, and her speech has been viewed over 14 million times. Walking onto the stage with a bag full of books, she reminded the world that introverts have extraordinary gifts[…]
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presentationskills tag
Speaking for Introverts: Insights from Susan Cain’s TED Talk
Advice, nervous, Presentating training Nov 26, 2014
Captivating Your Audience: Powerful Openings for Presentations
Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Nov 20, 2014
All presenters and public speakers face the challenge of getting and keeping their audience’s attention. Psychologists at Princeton University suggest that people form judgments about attractiveness, likability, trustworthiness, and competence after looking at someone’s face for just 100 milliseconds. No wonder many presenters feel anxious about speaking in public. The thought alone can be unnerving.[…]
Does Ed Miliband speak with the gravitas of Obama, the grace of Clinton, or the glow of Cameron? Not quite. However, he did make the right choice by speaking without notes at this week’s Labour Conference in Manchester. From a technical perspective, Miliband demonstrated several commendable speaking skills: Great eye contact Effective pauses Appropriate pacing[…]
Public speaking lessons from Michael Bay. People won’t throw knives at you, scratch your car, or storm out of the room during your presentation, and nobody has ever died from forgetting their words. The reality is that, whoever you are, most people want to see you succeed. No one wishes to witness your struggle or[…]
The Importance of Feedback in Developing Presentation Skills
Leadership, Mindfulness, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Aug 06, 2014
Have you ever received feedback on your presentation skills? To truly develop ourselves as public speakers, presenters, and leaders, one crucial aspect we often need more of is feedback. Reflecting back over 35 years, as a young manager, I thought I knew it all. I was climbing the corporate ladder at an impressive rate; everything[…]
Manage Public Speaking Anxiety: Techniques for Confident Presentations
Anxiety, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Aug 05, 2014
If you feel nervous about speaking in public or presenting at work, you know how unpleasant it can be. Many symptoms of nervousness are akin to other high-pressure situations, such as asking someone out on a date, going for a job interview, or taking a driving test. Shortness of breath, sweaty palms, dry mouth, queasy[…]
Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: Confidence Through Intention
Anxiety, Leadership, Mindfulness, nervous, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Aug 04, 2014
You can be very nervous and still deliver a great speech. At Mindful Presenter, we successfully help people overcome their public speaking anxiety, so if the thought of presenting makes you anxious, you’re not alone, you’re in good company. Throughout history, many individuals have openly admitted their nerves before delivering important speeches, often feeling they[…]
Presenting Without PowerPoint: Lessons from Simon Sinek
Leadership, Mindfulness, PowerPoint, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Aug 03, 2014
Is PowerPoint the first tool you reach for when called to present? Simon Sinek’s inspirational TED talk, “How Great Leaders Inspire Action,” is a shining example of how effective public speakers can engage and inspire an audience without relying on slides. With 21 million YouTube views, it’s clear why Simon is regarded as a “visionary[…]
The Power of Breath: Elevate Your Public Speaking Skills
Leadership, Mindfulness, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Jul 31, 2014
The best presenters understand the power of their breath and know how to harness it to their advantage when speaking. One of the very first lessons in effective public speaking coaching is learning how to breathe properly, especially for those who suffer from public speaking anxiety. Even if nerves aren’t an issue for you, focusing[…]
Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: Empower Your Mind
Anxiety, Leadership, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Jul 30, 2014
If you Google the search term “public speaking anxiety,” you’ll encounter an avalanche of articles offering advice, from relaxation techniques to the infamous suggestion of imagining your audience naked; though the latter is perhaps less than helpful! If you struggle with public speaking anxiety, consider enrolling in a mindfully crafted public speaking course; it can[…]
Dalton Sherman: A Shining Example of How to Own the Stage
Advice, Presentating training, Public Speaking Jul 29, 2014
Dalton Sherman is a prime example of owning the stage. His impressive presentation skills likely stem from effective training and practice. Watching him connect with and inspire an audience through charm, authenticity, and a compelling message is truly remarkable. In just 9 minutes, this young orator captures the hearts and minds of 20,000 adults.[…]
Presenting Isn’t Simply About Sharing Knowledge; It’s About Connecting with Your Audience
Leadership, Presentating training, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Jul 27, 2014
Presentation training goes beyond simply sharing knowledge, insights, and information. Ultimately, it’s about fostering a genuine connection with your audience. When you step onto the stage or in front of a crowd, you can be certain that you’re addressing a diverse group of individuals. Some may not be interested in being there; a few might[…]
The Key to Mindful Presenting: Having Clarity of Your ‘M’ POINT
Leadership, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Jul 24, 2014
The distinction between mediocre and mindful presenting is both real and evident. Mediocre presenters often fall into the trap of unconscious programming, leading to mechanical responses and information overload. Simply presenting everything you know isn’t mindful; it demands a higher level of awareness and consciousness. As human beings, we are hardwired by habit, often[…]
The Best Way to Connect with Your Audience: Give Them SPACE
Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Jul 14, 2014
The best way to connect with your audience give them SPACE In our training workshops, participants often express a desire to emulate presenters they admire. Our response is clear: you don’t need to mimic others to become a great presenter. The most impactful speakers are those who embrace their individuality, avoiding templates or prescribed formulas.[…]