I have often been asked:
•How do you deal with big egos in a presentation skills program?
•How do ensure that the people you coach connect the dots?
•How do you measure improvement when training/coaching on presentation skills?
My answer to all three questions is videotape!
Really, the only way to get a real assessment of how others see you as a presenter is to look at yourself. I’m not saying it’s easy, but it is necessary.
I’m not saying that I like to see myself on video, but, again, it is necessary.
What I have learned by being videotaped:
•I don’t smile as much as I think I do.
•I favor one side of the room.
•I make funny faces.
•My posture needs to be improved.
•And, the list goes on …
I know that sports professionals get videotaped, professional actors are taped, so why shouldn’t everyone who presents (to large and small groups) get taped as well?
It’s a great way to identify strengths and to determine what needs to be improved.
At BRODY, our presentation skills training and coaching almost always involves taping.
At my recent BRODY BOOST Camp, I hired a videographer (Rob Kates, www.professionalspeakervideo.com) to update my speaking demo and add some new footage.
What my recent videotaping experience really did for me was give me a list of the areas that I still need to work on!
That’s right, even we Hall of Fame speakers need to be open for self-improvement.
I truly believe in my own mantra that: “If you’re not green and growing, you’re ripe and rotting.”
What do you need to improve?
Remember – the best keep looking for ways to get better.
So, smile for that video camera!
Showing posts with label political speaking. Show all posts
Showing posts with label political speaking. Show all posts
Monday, June 15, 2009
Monday, February 9, 2009
The Power of Persuasion & Thoughts RE the Passing of Stimulus Package
The power of persuasion.
It’s all about how you look at things.
Aristotle said that all speaking is persuasive speaking. Ultimately, the goal is to sell ourselves and our ideas.
This past week, it has been interesting to listen to the use of persuasion by our elected -- and appointed -- government officials.
The topic was the stimulus package.
Of course, President Obama wanted to get more (or at least some) Republican support. He wanted it to be a bipartisan package. But, his eloquent powers of persuasion didn’t work this time.
Persuasion is only possible when people hearing a message are open enough to take in the new information. If the mind is closed, there is no chance for this.
Unfortunately, we have close-minded people on both sides of the fence.
Going back to Aristotle, he suggested that there are 3 “modes of proof” – ways of getting buy-in from audience members.
The reality is that speakers need all three of these to succeed, which didn’t happen in the case of discussion concerning the stimulus package. The 3 modes of proof are:
1) Logos – information that hits the head, or logical evidence. Unfortunately, so-called facts and figures can be manipulated/slanted to say whatever the speaker wants.
2) Pathos – emotion, hitting the heart. Clearly, in the case of the stimulus package, the fear over the economy has been used to create a sense of urgency. However, if the desired audience doesn’t buy into whatever emotion is used (i.e. fear), it does no good.
3) Ethos – your personal credibility. Depending on your perspective and political party, the ethos is either working for or against President Obama.
So, where does that leave us – the American public? Unfortunately, between a rock and a hard place.
-----
Speaking of persuasion, persuasive speaking is one of several communication topics that participants of the next BRODY BOOST Camp on April 2 will learn about -- sign up today!
It’s all about how you look at things.
Aristotle said that all speaking is persuasive speaking. Ultimately, the goal is to sell ourselves and our ideas.
This past week, it has been interesting to listen to the use of persuasion by our elected -- and appointed -- government officials.
The topic was the stimulus package.
Of course, President Obama wanted to get more (or at least some) Republican support. He wanted it to be a bipartisan package. But, his eloquent powers of persuasion didn’t work this time.
Persuasion is only possible when people hearing a message are open enough to take in the new information. If the mind is closed, there is no chance for this.
Unfortunately, we have close-minded people on both sides of the fence.
Going back to Aristotle, he suggested that there are 3 “modes of proof” – ways of getting buy-in from audience members.
The reality is that speakers need all three of these to succeed, which didn’t happen in the case of discussion concerning the stimulus package. The 3 modes of proof are:
1) Logos – information that hits the head, or logical evidence. Unfortunately, so-called facts and figures can be manipulated/slanted to say whatever the speaker wants.
2) Pathos – emotion, hitting the heart. Clearly, in the case of the stimulus package, the fear over the economy has been used to create a sense of urgency. However, if the desired audience doesn’t buy into whatever emotion is used (i.e. fear), it does no good.
3) Ethos – your personal credibility. Depending on your perspective and political party, the ethos is either working for or against President Obama.
So, where does that leave us – the American public? Unfortunately, between a rock and a hard place.
-----
Speaking of persuasion, persuasive speaking is one of several communication topics that participants of the next BRODY BOOST Camp on April 2 will learn about -- sign up today!
Monday, January 19, 2009
We Can Learn From Obama’s Inauguration Speech
One more day until we can stop saying “President-elect Barack Obama” and say “President Obama.”
Regardless of your political views, I am sure you are wishing him great success. After all, it is in the best interest of all Americans – and, perhaps, all world citizens.
If there has ever been any doubt about the importance of selling your message and yourself, our soon-to-be 44th president should have put that to rest.
President-elect Obama has used his background as a community organizer and his great oratory skills to mobilize, motivate and inspire millions.
He is a student of history and rhetoric. He plays to the heart and to the head.
Obama’s inaugural address should be interesting, indeed.
For students of public speaking (and shouldn’t we all be?), pay attention to how much logic, and how much emotion he uses. When does he pause for effect? When does he gesture?
Barack Obama is a studied and practiced person. He will have thought out and practiced every word, every dramatic pause for effect, and every gesture.
Peter Drucker said, “Spontaneity is an infinite number of rehearsed possibilities.”
When you watch the inauguration, and listen to President-elect Obama’s address, you will see a master at work.
Regardless of your political views, I am sure you are wishing him great success. After all, it is in the best interest of all Americans – and, perhaps, all world citizens.
If there has ever been any doubt about the importance of selling your message and yourself, our soon-to-be 44th president should have put that to rest.
President-elect Obama has used his background as a community organizer and his great oratory skills to mobilize, motivate and inspire millions.
He is a student of history and rhetoric. He plays to the heart and to the head.
Obama’s inaugural address should be interesting, indeed.
For students of public speaking (and shouldn’t we all be?), pay attention to how much logic, and how much emotion he uses. When does he pause for effect? When does he gesture?
Barack Obama is a studied and practiced person. He will have thought out and practiced every word, every dramatic pause for effect, and every gesture.
Peter Drucker said, “Spontaneity is an infinite number of rehearsed possibilities.”
When you watch the inauguration, and listen to President-elect Obama’s address, you will see a master at work.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Bad Humor Is No Joke
Using humor can be a great lead-in to an effective presentation, and even sprinkled throughout a talk.
But U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) is now apologizing for telling Polish jokes at a gathering of Pennsylvania political insiders earlier this month.
Senator Specter says he was recalling stories that had been told by the late Philadelphia Republican political boss, Billy Meehan. He explained, “On the Pennsylvania Society weekend, the subject came up and I told a couple of Bill Meehan stories. And they struck a nerve. And they were insensitive and, I now see, inappropriate.”
Even seasoned orators like Senator Specter need to remember a few rules for the effective use of humor when giving a presentation:
1)Never disparage any ethnic, gender, age, or racial group. This type of humor is NEVER funny, nor appropriate – despite what you may think.
2)Don’t repeat a joke that someone else used, thinking the blame for it if it bombs won’t be placed squarely on you (see above story RE Senator Specter).
3)Humor often doesn’t “travel” well (internationally or regionally).
4)Work on your timing – a humorous story improperly delivered is ineffective.
5)Self-deprecating humor can be good, unless they take your foibles seriously.
6)Don’t blame others for your poor judgment (Senator Specter take note)
The good news is that Senator Specter realized that he had made a mistake in using this inappropriate humor and apologized. Many speakers whose presentations fail due to bad use of humor don’t often realize in retrospect why their message wasn’t effectively received.
Senator Specter says that he makes a lot of speeches, and usually uses humor in good taste. But he says sometimes he makes mistakes –-and this was a big one.
Presenters can learn from this example, and carefully consider the use of humor – following the guidelines above.
But U.S. Senator Arlen Specter (R-Pa.) is now apologizing for telling Polish jokes at a gathering of Pennsylvania political insiders earlier this month.
Senator Specter says he was recalling stories that had been told by the late Philadelphia Republican political boss, Billy Meehan. He explained, “On the Pennsylvania Society weekend, the subject came up and I told a couple of Bill Meehan stories. And they struck a nerve. And they were insensitive and, I now see, inappropriate.”
Even seasoned orators like Senator Specter need to remember a few rules for the effective use of humor when giving a presentation:
1)Never disparage any ethnic, gender, age, or racial group. This type of humor is NEVER funny, nor appropriate – despite what you may think.
2)Don’t repeat a joke that someone else used, thinking the blame for it if it bombs won’t be placed squarely on you (see above story RE Senator Specter).
3)Humor often doesn’t “travel” well (internationally or regionally).
4)Work on your timing – a humorous story improperly delivered is ineffective.
5)Self-deprecating humor can be good, unless they take your foibles seriously.
6)Don’t blame others for your poor judgment (Senator Specter take note)
The good news is that Senator Specter realized that he had made a mistake in using this inappropriate humor and apologized. Many speakers whose presentations fail due to bad use of humor don’t often realize in retrospect why their message wasn’t effectively received.
Senator Specter says that he makes a lot of speeches, and usually uses humor in good taste. But he says sometimes he makes mistakes –-and this was a big one.
Presenters can learn from this example, and carefully consider the use of humor – following the guidelines above.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
The Power of Mastermind Groups
As I wrote this blog, I was in Phoenix having a mastermind group meeting.
So many people ask me, “What is a mastermind group?”
It’s simply a group of like-minded businesspeople who regularly get together to share ideas.
One member from one of my mastermind groups said that he’s made more than $6 million just from the ideas he’s gotten from the rest of us!
Historically, I was a non-joiner, but began to hear more and more of the value of belonging to a mastermind group.
Ultimately, I became a founding member of two different groups -- one that has been meeting for 11 years now, Master Speakers International; and the other for seven years, Business Builders.
For me, mastermind group meetings have been a place to get great new ideas, receive feedback on my current ideas, help others, and share experiences -- not to mention develop incredible relationships.
This week, I’m giving a presentation about mastermind groups at the National Speakers Association conference. I’ve also invited a panel of professionals to discuss their own experiences – the good and the bad – what makes a mastermind group work, and what are the pitfalls?
If any of you reading this blog have questions about mastermind groups, please feel free to e-mail me. I’d be happy to answer any questions, or share more of my own personal experiences with them.
So many people ask me, “What is a mastermind group?”
It’s simply a group of like-minded businesspeople who regularly get together to share ideas.
One member from one of my mastermind groups said that he’s made more than $6 million just from the ideas he’s gotten from the rest of us!
Historically, I was a non-joiner, but began to hear more and more of the value of belonging to a mastermind group.
Ultimately, I became a founding member of two different groups -- one that has been meeting for 11 years now, Master Speakers International; and the other for seven years, Business Builders.
For me, mastermind group meetings have been a place to get great new ideas, receive feedback on my current ideas, help others, and share experiences -- not to mention develop incredible relationships.
This week, I’m giving a presentation about mastermind groups at the National Speakers Association conference. I’ve also invited a panel of professionals to discuss their own experiences – the good and the bad – what makes a mastermind group work, and what are the pitfalls?
If any of you reading this blog have questions about mastermind groups, please feel free to e-mail me. I’d be happy to answer any questions, or share more of my own personal experiences with them.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Gain a Professional Edge at BRODY Boost Camp, November 13, 2008
I just came back from Pittsburgh, PA, where I was speaking to a client about the importance of personal marketing.
In these times of “troubled waters,” the ability to sell yourself is even more critical.
I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating now: It’s not just who you know, but who knows you -- and what you’re capable of doing -- that counts!
My upcoming BRODY Boost Camp on Thursday, November 13, will help attendees enhance their professionalism, persuasive speaking, and personal promotion.
There are still some seats available.
You can check out the full agenda, and register, by visiting this link on the BRODY Professional Development site: http://www.brodypro.com/site/boost_camp/Boost_camp.html.
If you have any questions, just give me a call or e-mail me at marjorie@brodypro.com.
In these times of “troubled waters,” the ability to sell yourself is even more critical.
I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating now: It’s not just who you know, but who knows you -- and what you’re capable of doing -- that counts!
My upcoming BRODY Boost Camp on Thursday, November 13, will help attendees enhance their professionalism, persuasive speaking, and personal promotion.
There are still some seats available.
You can check out the full agenda, and register, by visiting this link on the BRODY Professional Development site: http://www.brodypro.com/site/boost_camp/Boost_camp.html.
If you have any questions, just give me a call or e-mail me at marjorie@brodypro.com.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Pre-Debate Coaching/Advice for Presidential Candidates
The official count down to the election next month has begun.
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting tired of the political rhetoric.
I would love one (both would be better!) of the candidates to simply call a halt to the negativity.
People want straight talk. People want solutions. People want honesty.
I wouldn’t miss the next debate this Wednesday, even though it’s my 20th wedding anniversary!
That said, I will forgo the usual “dining out experience” so I can be home watching the TV. Fortunately, my husband concurs.
Aside from the politics, it’s fascinating for me as a speaker and presentation skills coach to watch the candidates do what we at BRODY Professional Development say not to do, and also what to do.
A free bit of coaching advice to both presidential candidates:
1) be respectful of each other
2) look at the audience and the camera
3) don’t over talk, or cut each other off
4) don’t make condescending comments
5) avoid repetitive words or phrases (examples from last time: “my friend” and “look”).
Oh yes, and one more thing – with the advent of fact checking, let’s be honest with the information shared, please.
The truth will come out at some point, so why not now?
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting tired of the political rhetoric.
I would love one (both would be better!) of the candidates to simply call a halt to the negativity.
People want straight talk. People want solutions. People want honesty.
I wouldn’t miss the next debate this Wednesday, even though it’s my 20th wedding anniversary!
That said, I will forgo the usual “dining out experience” so I can be home watching the TV. Fortunately, my husband concurs.
Aside from the politics, it’s fascinating for me as a speaker and presentation skills coach to watch the candidates do what we at BRODY Professional Development say not to do, and also what to do.
A free bit of coaching advice to both presidential candidates:
1) be respectful of each other
2) look at the audience and the camera
3) don’t over talk, or cut each other off
4) don’t make condescending comments
5) avoid repetitive words or phrases (examples from last time: “my friend” and “look”).
Oh yes, and one more thing – with the advent of fact checking, let’s be honest with the information shared, please.
The truth will come out at some point, so why not now?
Monday, October 6, 2008
Political Presentations: Is It What You Say, Or How You Say It?
I hope you are having as much “fun” as I am watching and listening to the debate buzz.
Of course, I have friends on both sides of the fence. A few have asked if I was coaching any of the candidates – and a few have suggested that I do so (I’d be delighted)!
The answer is, “No, I’m not coaching any of the four candidates.” But, the real question is, “Who is?”
My work, and the work of BRODY Professional Development, is to help people in all industries hone their message and delivery – hence, the effectiveness of corporate professionals.
It’s always amazing to me to see and hear the difference that a little coaching and training can make.
Just last week, I was coaching a young female who works in an older, male-dominated environment. In a short time, with coaching, she was able to shift her message and maximize what she brings to the table.
She walked away with a greater sense of self confidence. I have no doubt that she will accomplish her objectives (selling her credibility and her ideas), when she delivers her next message.
If you have any suggestions for our presidential and vice presidential candidates on clarity and consistency of their messages, and how they should be delivering them, why not send them to me? I will post your ideas here.
My message for the week: “Speak up. Speak Out. Let others benefit from your ideas.”
Of course, I have friends on both sides of the fence. A few have asked if I was coaching any of the candidates – and a few have suggested that I do so (I’d be delighted)!
The answer is, “No, I’m not coaching any of the four candidates.” But, the real question is, “Who is?”
My work, and the work of BRODY Professional Development, is to help people in all industries hone their message and delivery – hence, the effectiveness of corporate professionals.
It’s always amazing to me to see and hear the difference that a little coaching and training can make.
Just last week, I was coaching a young female who works in an older, male-dominated environment. In a short time, with coaching, she was able to shift her message and maximize what she brings to the table.
She walked away with a greater sense of self confidence. I have no doubt that she will accomplish her objectives (selling her credibility and her ideas), when she delivers her next message.
If you have any suggestions for our presidential and vice presidential candidates on clarity and consistency of their messages, and how they should be delivering them, why not send them to me? I will post your ideas here.
My message for the week: “Speak up. Speak Out. Let others benefit from your ideas.”
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