Why does rhythm matter? We’ve all had experiences of being in front of a public speaker who had all the right words, and even had compelling ideas, but just couldn’t command our attention. (In the political arena, think of Al Gore, or Mitt Romney.) Why not? Probably because they didn’t have rhythm (or rather, they Read More
25 x 25 in '25
How to Introduce People to Each Other: A “25 x 25 in ’25” Public Speaking Exercise
Ready to jump into practice? Go directly to the exercise. In case you’re not already a fan of this pleasure, there are lots of good reasons to introduce people that you know to each other: When I was growing up, there were a lot of rules around introducing people. (This was before people could easily Read More
Do This When Someone Interrupts You: A “25 x 25 in ’25” Public Speaking Exercise
Ready to jump into practice? Go directly to the exercise. True Confession: I’m an unreformed interrupter. That’s because I’m opinionated, impatient, a fast thinker, and a fast talker. I hate waiting for other people to get to the point. (Ask my husband.) 😇 Now, do I want you to copy me, because interrupting is the Read More
How to Interrupt Someone: A “25 x 25 in ’25” Public Speaking Exercise
Ready to jump into practice? Go directly to the exercise. As a child, you may have been taught that it’s really rude to interrupt other people. And sometimes it is. But there are times when interrupting is necessary, or even kind—for example, when the other person is digging themselves into a verbal hole; or if Read More
How to Talk About Yourself (and yes, you have to! :-)): A “25 x 25 in ’25” Public Speaking Exercise
Ready to jump into practice? Go directly to the exercise. Does Your Good Work “Speak for Itself”? In a word, no. There may have once been a time when you could depend on your manager and colleagues to notice the incredible things you do at work; but if there ever was such a time, it’s Read More