Some time ago I was enjoying the music of a Singer-songwriter, between songs she spoke so openly to the audience. Her openness seemed to endear her to the audience, it seems that singer-songwriters naturally display openness with their audience. Although as public speakers we are often not open and thus lose the opportunity to truly engage with … [Read more...]
The Importance of a great speech opening
The benefits of a great speech opening are two fold, it captures the audiences attention and puts both the speaker and the audience at ease. Few emphasize the later benefit of putting both the speaker and the audience at ease, yet its just as important as capturing the audiences attention. Speaker and Audience at Ease In the first 30 seconds of … [Read more...]
Public Speaking 101: How to structure Content
Introduction This blog is based on Toastmasters material and my experience structuring content through my toastmasters speeches. There are three phases to this creating great content for your speech. Firstly, the purpose of your presentation Secondly, get to know your audience Finally, the structuring of your content. 1. General … [Read more...]
PowerPoint vs Prezi, Which is better?
For the last number of years I have used both Both Powerpoint and Prezi for presentations. After delivering a Prezi presentation I always get the same question, which is better, Powerpoint or Prezi? My answer is always the same, it depends on the context. Context You determine which is better based on your presentation. Is your … [Read more...]
The Number 1 Mistake to Avoid for Digital Presentations
When I first joined toastmasters I thought digital presentations were all about the content. I followed the usual tips Write the speech first and only then create the slides Keep the slides simple and concise (less is more) Use colour appropriately Don’t over use animations and transitions Ensure all text, images and … [Read more...]