One Simple Trick To Increase Curiosity In Your Story

One Simple Trick To Increase Curiosity In Your Story

Bluma Zeigarnik, circa 1921 It’s 2008. I’m a Certified Financial Planner, presenting a retirement planning workshop to 49 successful business women. Five minutes into my presentation, a woman named Leslie stands up, and asks a question that will eventually change the...
One Belief That’s Killing Your Speaking Game

One Belief That’s Killing Your Speaking Game

The Quest for Perfection My client said a phrase I’ve heard countless times: “Michael, I really want to perfect my speech.”  It’s a mantra repeated by many speakers, even professionals. The thought process is that if you rehearse enough, your speech will be flawless....
Avoid Reputation Damage With This One Speaking Mistake

Avoid Reputation Damage With This One Speaking Mistake

You’re scheduled to give a presentation at a company function. You know you should prepare, but… Your schedule is jam-packed; you can’t fit in another task. Besides, you know this topic inside and out. You can “wing it.” You’re...
Stop Your “Inner Heckler” From Sabotaging Your Speaking

Stop Your “Inner Heckler” From Sabotaging Your Speaking

Picture yourself at the front of a room, before a waiting audience. You have a script in hand and slides queued up. As you’re about to speak, you hear voices start to heckle you. “You’re gonna forget your lines!” “They’re waiting for you to screw up!” “They’re gonna...