Let’s be real: public speaking can feel like standing in front of a firing squad. Your palms may sweat, your heart may race, and your mind may suddenly go blank, almost like a faulty computer. But here’s a nugget of wisdom: even the most seasoned speakers have faced anxiety. What sets them apart? They’ve discovered[…]
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Nobody Tells You This About Public Speaking: 5 Insights to Captivate Your Audience
General Jan 06, 2026
In the world of public speaking and business communication, many presenters rely on polished slides, compelling stories, or impressive data. While these elements are helpful, the true secret to elevating a presentation lies in a less tangible but profoundly impactful quality: presence. The real power that makes an audience sit up, lean in, and act[…]
The Graduate’s Guide to Nailing That Interview Presentation
Anxiety, Communication Skills, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Jun 15, 2019
An interview presentation isn’t something that most of us look forward to giving. In fact, I don’t believe I know anyone who actually enjoys being interviewed. It won’t be long before universities up and down the entire country prepare to say congratulations and farewell to the class of that year. After years of intense study,[…]
7 Keys to Powerful Digital Presentations in Business
Communication Skills, Leadership, Presentation Skills Feb 04, 2019
In today’s world, virtual meetings and digital presentations are the norm. Presenting face to face is often an onerous task for even the most experienced business professional. Now we are increasingly called on to do it digitally. – Get close to the camera, but not too close. – Make eye contact, project energy and make[…]
Do Presidents Need to Be Inspirational Speakers? A Leadership Communication Perspective
Leadership, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Aug 21, 2016
Throughout history, American presidents have delivered some of the world’s most memorable and influential speeches. Their words have shaped national identity, offered reassurance in moments of crisis, and inspired generations to act. Barack Obama often spoke of shared values and collective purpose. John F. Kennedy challenged citizens to contribute to something larger than themselves. Franklin[…]
A 60 Minute Masterclass in Public Speaking: Lessons from a Landmark Speech
Leadership, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Jul 31, 2016
When Hillary Clinton closed the 2016 Democratic National Convention, she delivered a speech that offered far more than political messaging. It was a rare, real-time demonstration of how a leader can use structure, storytelling, clarity and emotional intelligence to influence millions. Whatever one’s political views, the speech remains a powerful case study in high-impact public[…]
Much has been written about the extraordinary oratory skills of Barack Obama. But anyone who has watched Michelle Obama speak knows she is equally capable of commanding a room with clarity, grace and emotional intelligence. During the 2016 Democratic National Convention, she delivered a speech that captivated millions. It was heartfelt, disciplined and deeply human;[…]
Another Perspective on Passion: A Communication Lesson from High Energy Speakers
Advice Jun 13, 2016
In every area of life, there are exceptions to the rules we rely on, and public speaking is no different. One of the most widely accepted principles of effective presenting is the importance of passion. Passion brings energy and conviction, and it brings life to a message. Every now and then, a speaker emerges whose[…]
Why Effective Communication Is the Skill That Shapes Your Life, Your Work and Your Impact
Communication Skills, Leadership, Mindfulness, Presentation Skills, Public Speaking May 04, 2016
Communication is the thread that runs through every moment of our lives. It shapes how we think, how we feel, how we relate to others and how we move through the world. It influences our confidence, our relationships, our careers, our opportunities and even our sense of identity. The ability to communicate effectively isn’t a[…]
It’s your attitude that makes all the difference – especially when presenting
Presentation Skills, Public Speaking Apr 21, 2016
I don’t think many people would argue with the idea that it’s your attitude that makes all the difference in life. Your attitude also makes a huge difference when it comes to public speaking and presenting too, which is often something many people overlook. A mindful presenter has an attitude of: Empathy Imagine the shift[…]
9 Great Presentation Tips to Influence Any Audience
Advice, Presentating training, Presentation Skills, Presentation Tips Mar 19, 2016
Life is full of great presentation tips. As a child my parents invested enormous energy trying hard to influence so much of my behaviour. At school, it seemed my teachers roles extended way beyond my academic development. They also had a plan to influence my thoughts and behaviour. Even my friends seemed to have their[…]
12 Essential Traits of Great Presenters
Advice, Presentating training, Presentation Skills, Presentation Tips Feb 26, 2015
Is great presenting a skill you aspire to develop? History has shown us that all great speakers share common elements that contribute to their success. Here are 12 key traits that effective presenters possess. 1. They Don’t Say Good Morning Can you imagine Martin Luther King starting his speech with, “Good morning, I have a[…]
Powerful Presentations: The Art of Storytelling
Presentation Skills, Public Speaking, Storytelling Dec 05, 2014
Every great presentation is fundamentally a story. At the age of 60, Diana Nyad embarked on open water training for a 60-hour, 103-mile (166 km) swim from Cuba to Florida—a challenge she had failed to complete thirty years earlier. After 29 hours in the water, strong currents pushed her off course, forcing her to abandon[…]
