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In person or on-line, your audience has a short attention span. In the realm of public speaking, the magic often lies in the connection between the speaker and the audience. It’s a two-way street where not only does the speaker impart knowledge or share stories, but also indulges in a dynamic interaction with the audience. This interaction, known as audience engagement, is the lynchpin that can markedly enhance the impact of the presentation. Let’s look at the importance of audience engagement and str ategies to foster it. The Significance of Audience Engagement for Speakers: Promotes Retention and Understanding: Engaged audiences are more likely to retain the information presented. The interaction facilitates a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Fosters a Rewarding Experience: When audiences engage, they participate in a shared learning journey, making the experience more rewarding and memorable for both the speaker and the audience. Gives the Speaker Instant Feedback: This helps the speaker gauge the audience’s reaction and adjust the delivery as needed. Builds a Community: Engaging the audience cultivates a sense of community and connection, turning a monologue into a dialogue that resonates long after the talk. Boosts Speaker’s Confidence: Positive engagement from the audience can significantly boost a speaker’s confidence, enhancing the overall delivery of the speech. Strategies to Achieve Audience Engagement: Know Your Audience: Understanding your audience’s interests, beliefs, and values helps in tailoring the content to spark their curiosity and engagement. Incorporate Interactive Elements: Include Q&A sessions, polls, or interactive exercises to make the audience an active participant rather than a passive listener. Tell in your Opening you’ll be asking for a few “Lessons Learned” after each segment of your talk. This puts the audience on notice they might be called upon and to make notes on what they are learning. Utilize Storytelling Techniques: We are wired to love stories. Incorporate storytelling techniques to captivate your audience and drive engagement. Employ Vocal Variety and Body Language: Your tone, pace, and gestures play a crucial role in keeping the audience engaged. A dynamic delivery is more likely to hold their attention. Leverage Visual Aids and Props: Visual aids like slides or props can help illustrate your points, making the content more engaging and easier to understand and remember. Encourage Social Media Interaction: Encourage the audience to share insights, questions, or feedback on social media platforms during or after the talk, extending the engagement beyond the event. Audience Engagement is the currency of the speaking realm. Utilizing these tactics will not only enrich the audience’s experience but also elevate your speaking skills Become a good presenter and learn these strategies for engaging your audiences and I guarantee your presentations will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Oppo rtunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated!

LISTEN! Here are some valuable tips to accomplish these important presentation skills. Know your audience: Understand the demographics, interests, and knowledge level of people attending your talk and tailor your message accordingly. This will help you speak in a way that resonates with them and keeps them engaged. Start with a strong opening: Capture the audience’s attention from the beginning with a compelling story, quote, or intriguing question. This will set the tone for your talk and create interest. Be clear and concise: Organize your content in a logical manner and keep your language simple and straightforward. Avoid using jargon that might confuse or alienate the audience. Use visual aids: Incorporate relevant visuals like slides, charts, and videos to enhance your message and keep the audience visually engaged. Share personal anecdotes: Relate your message to real-life experiences or personal stories to make it more relatable and humanize your speech. Encourage audience interaction: Involve the audience through questions, polls, or brief activities. This fosters engagement and makes the talk more interactive. Be passionate and enthusiastic: Show genuine excitement about your topic. Enthusiasm is contagious and will help maintain the audience’s interest. Pace yourself: Speak in a conversational manner at a comfortable pace and avoid rushing through your talk. Use pauses so the audience time to absorb your words. Use humor (appropriately): Humor can be a powerful tool to connect with the audience and make your talk memorable. However, be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid offensive jokes. Address concerns and counterarguments: Acknowledge potential doubts or opposing viewpoints and address them respectfully. This shows that you’ve considered different perspectives and strengthens your credibility. Maintain eye contact: Establish a connection with your audience by making eye contact with various individuals throughout your talk. It creates a sense of involvement and attentiveness. Control nervousness: It’s normal to feel nervous, but try to manage it by practicing deep breathing, positive visualization, or seeking support from a colleague or friend. End with a strong closing: “The last thing you say and do is the first thing they will remember.” Leave a lasting impression by summarizing your main points and delivering a powerful closing statement or call to action. Be open to feedback: Encourage questions and feedback from the audience, and be gracious in receiving them. Constructive criticism can help you improve as a speaker. Remember that effective public speaking takes practice and continuous improvement. Become a good presenter and embrace opportunities to speak in front of audiences, and over time, you’ll become a more confident and impactful speaker and it will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated!

The correct use of PAUSING in presentations can be extremely powerful. LISTEN! However, it’s one of the toughest things to do for a number of reasons, including the thought “I’m the speaker. Shouldn’t I be speaking!?” Pausing during presentations holds significant value for a number of reasons: Emphasize Key Points: Pausing before or after a crucial point can draw attention to that point, allowing the audience to absorb and contemplate its significance. This action actually underlines the information you want to emphasize.. Digestion and Comprehension: Pauses give the audience a moment to process the information you just presented. This enhances their understanding and retention of the content, two of your main presentation goals. Rhythmic Variation: A well-paced presentation with strategic pauses creates a rhythm that keeps the audience engaged. Monotonous speaking can lead to disinterest. Anticipation: Pausing can build anticipation for what you’re about to say. This can heighten curiosity and keep the audience eager to hear your next point. Control Nervousness: Pausing can help control nervousness or stage fright. It gives you a moment to collect your thoughts and regain composure. Allow Reflection: For complex or thought-provoking concepts, pauses let the audience reflect on what’s been said. This can lead to more insightful questions during Q&A sessions. Transitioning: Pausing between different sections or topics can signal transitions. This helps the audience mentally shift gears and prepares them for what’s coming next. Engage Emotions: Pausing can be used strategically to create emotional impact. It gives time for the audience to feel the emotions you’re trying to convey. Empower Storytelling: In narrative-style presentations, pauses allow for dramatic effect. They can help build suspense, tension, or convey emotional moments in a story. Non-verbal Communication: Pausing can be used to emphasize body language, facial expressions, and gestures, making your message more impactful. Managing Time: Pausing can be used to help manage the timing of your presentation, ensuring that you don’t rush through important points. Addressing Questions: When you pause after asking a question to the audience, you give them time to think and respond. This can encourage interaction and participation. Demonstrate Confidence: A presenter who uses purposeful pauses appears confident and in control of the presentation. However, it’s essential to use pauses thoughtfully. Too many can disrupt the flow of your presentation and lead to disengagement. Too few can make your delivery feel rushed and overwhelming. Learn these techniques through Presentation Coaching Practice and self-awareness will help find the right balance. Use these suggestions for P-A-U-S-I-N-G in your presentations and I guarantee they will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ——————————————————————————————————————————————————— About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, andPresentation Skills. They do this because they know:"Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities." They also know:We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated!

Having a great elevator speech is incredibly important for a variety of reasons, both personally and professionally. An elevator speech is a brief, compelling introduction that can be delivered in the time it takes to ride an elevator, typically around 30 seconds to two minutes. Here’s why everyone should have one: CLICK Here and Get started on your great Elevator Speech using this proven Template and Worksheet. First Impressions: An elevator speech allows you to make a strong and memorable first impression in a short amount of time. It’s often the initial interaction people have with you, and a well-crafted elevator speech can leave a positive and lasting impression. Networking: In social or professional networking situations, you may have limited time to introduce yourself and convey your value. An effective elevator speech can help you succinctly communicate who you are and what you do, making it easier for others to connect with you. Job Interviews: During job interviews, having a well-prepared elevator speech can help you concisely explain your qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the position. It demonstrates your confidence and preparation. Career Advancement: In a professional setting, being able to succinctly articulate your accomplishments and goals can contribute to your career advancement. This is especially useful in situations like performance reviews or interactions with supervisors. Entrepreneurship: If you’re an entrepreneur or a business owner, an effective elevator speech can help you pitch your product or service to potential customers, investors, or partners. It’s a key tool in your marketing and sales efforts. Public Speaking: Crafting a clear and engaging elevator speech can help you improve your public speaking skills. It allows you to convey your message in a concise and compelling manner, which is valuable for any speaking engagement. Self-Confidence: Knowing how to succinctly and confidently introduce yourself can boost your self-esteem and overall self-confidence. It can make you feel more prepared and in control during various social and professional interactions. Effective Communication: Developing an elevator speech requires you to distill your thoughts and ideas down to their core essence. This skill can translate into better overall communication, both in written and spoken forms. Unexpected Opportunities: You never know when you might meet someone who could be a potential mentor, collaborator, client, or employer. Having a well-prepared elevator speech ensures that you’re ready to seize these opportunities when they arise. Develop, practice and deliver that Elevator Speech using this proven template I hope you downloaded. Do that and I guarantee your next Elevator Speech will be absolutely, positively –  NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

Tom Ruwitch is the ultimate host and consummate interviewer. I always learn from him! Check out his site, Story Power Marketing and learn how to fire up prospects and inspire them to hire you with story-powered content that’s simple to create. TRANSCRIPT [Music] This is the Story Power Marketing Show with Tom Ruwitch. Make yourself comfortable and fasten your seatbelt. Tom and his guest are about to share powerful stories, trade, business, building insights, and have a few laughs. Tom created this podcast to help you captivate prospects and inspire them to act so you can get more clients quickly and easily. That’s what powerful storytelling is all about. That’s what this podcast is all about. So let’s get this party started. Here’s your host, Tom Ruwitch. TOM Hello and welcome to the Story Power Marketing Show. I’m Tom Ruwitch, and today’s episode is called How to Transform Your Public Speaking From No Can-Do To No Sweat. My guest today is, Fred Miller. Fred is the author of three books, no Sweat Public Speaking, No Sweat Elevator Speech, and No Sweat. The Fear of Public Speaking. Each has earned rave reviews on Amazon, including reviews from me. Fred is an internationally recognized public speaking expert, a TEDx talk coach, and a podcaster. Businesses, individuals and organizations hire him because they want to improve their networking, their public speaking and their presentation skills. They do it because they know that speaking opportunities are business, career, and leadership opportunities. Fred Miller, welcome to the Story Power Marketing Show. FRED Well, thanks for having me, Thomas. It’s a privilege to be your guest. TOM Yeah. You know, we go back a long way. I don’t even remember how many years it’s been. We’re both in St. Louis, Missouri. I knew you long before you leaned into this public speaking thing, But tell us a little bit about how you came to this game, this realization that speaking opportunities or business, career leadership opportunities. FRED Well, I would watch people present and you realize that we like to work with experts. If you are perceived as an expert, they work with you. Same reason you wanna write a book. And, and by the way, just as a sidebar, always write your own introduction and include in it, if you don’t have a book, and I appreciate you mentioning mine, The title of his upcoming book is . . . . . Because we perceive writers and speakers as experts. We like to work with experts. They command more money for their products and services. And I used to go see Zig Ziglar and Brian Tracy and speakers like that. Just think, man, that is, that’s awesome! And you saw the power people have also on the other side. You would see people who were very, very bright, but they couldn’t communicate. And it hurt their career. And it just, one thing led to another. I was in Toastmasters for years and got out of a couple businesses that just seemed like the right time to pursue my passion. And and you’ve done some of the same things, Tom. TOM Yeah. Yeah. And so for those people who can’t communicate, who are, who are struggling with it, who find it to be a scary thing, who are sweating it, um, what are, what are some of the, what are some of the reasons that they’re struggling? What are some of the biggest mistakes that you see with people when they are getting up there in front of a crowd? FRED Well, first of all, it’s natural because most of our conversations are one-on-one like this. Then, you’re on the phone or a phone, I should say. We don’t see the people. And more and more people are texting or emailing. You don’t see or hear them. And you get up in front of a group like, whoa, whoa, that’s, that’s a little different. That’s uncomfortable. But the thing is that we can learn to do this. And the analogy I like to give, it’s, it’s a story to your expertise. “I got a call years ago from an OBGYN, She was moving from New York to St. Louis, going be affiliated with one of the big hospitals. Terrible fear of public speaking. I could hear it in her voice. And she told me, and she said, “This is very, very important to me. I’m going be teaching a class. I’m going be presenting to colleagues. Can you help me?” I said, “I don’t know, doctor, can I ask you a few questions? She said, sure. I said, “You’re an OBGYN, that means you deliver baby boys and baby girls, correct” She goes, “Yes.” I said, “Well, have you ever delivered a baby public speaker?” And she kind of chuckled, said, no, no, I haven’t, Fred. I said, let me ask you another question. You’re a doctor, you’re an adult. You’ve dealt with death. It’s part of life. Do you know anyone who’s passed away giving a presentation? And she kind of chuckled again and said, “No, I don’t.” I said, “Doctor, you just proved my point. There’s not a public speaking gene that we’re either born or not born with.  It’s a relatively safe activity to engage in. So somewhere between birth and death, it’s a skill we can learn. You weren’t born knowing how to drive a car, ride a bike. You went to medical school, doctor. You’ve done tougher things.” So the short answer is we can learn these skills. And it’s worth doing. It. It’s a price –  benefit and the price of going through and toughing it out and sweating and being a little bit scared –  It’s worth it because it can change your life, career, business! TOM So how do you turn the sweaty, frightened public speaker into the no sweat public speaker? What are some of, some of your best tips? I don’t wanna give away the whole book, but I want to prove to the people listening that they need to go out and get those books. FRED Well, they do. A silver nugget is Practice – Practice – Practice. And the golden nugget is Speak – Speak – Speak. The learning is in the doing. Now, if you want to take it to another level, and this is what they tell doctors when they first enter medical school is, “See one, do one, teach one.” So if you can teach it as you’re teaching storytelling, you become much, much better at it. Let me give you my best tip for practicing like we’re doing here – Video. Video yourself. And, and I got mine set up so you can see my gestures, because that’s part of giving a good presentation. Nonverbal communication surpasses verbal, but video yourself, giving a presentation and then play it back. The first time you play it back, turn the sound off. Just watch. Are you doing things that are distracting, that really aren’t congruent with what you’re talking about? Second time, turn the screen around and just listen. How is your enunciation and pronunciation? How is your pacing? Are you speaking too quickly or too slowly? Are you pausing all the other verbal communication? Listen to that. Third time, watch it: video and audio. You’ll see what the audience sees and hears. And the fourth time, watch it with a trusted coach. And don’t just say, “Give me some feedback.” Say, “I want to know two things I’m really doing well, and three opportunities for improvement. Because if they just say, “Hey, Tom, that was dynamite, man, I can’t wait to hear you speak again!” Well, you love that warm fuzzy, but that doesn’t really help you. And then go up to as many audiences as possible, different audiences. I remember in Toastmaster, one of our best speakers got too comfortable in front of our club.  He lost his mojo. And then when you go out to a speaking gig and it’s a different crowd, like, whoa, whoa. I don’t know, you guys. TOM What I love, lots of love tricks. What I love about that advice, Fred, is you started with two, you know, basic ideas; practice, practice, practice, and do it. Get out there. I I probably just misstated the first two things that you said, but the cynic and the person who’s not taking this presentation seriously might say, “Well, of course, duh.” But then you gave us a really good framework for how to go about doing it. And at the heart of the advice that you just gave us is the understanding that without much training, without any training, we know what a good speaker looks like. FRED So, watch yourself with the sound off and you’ll see, you’ll know, oh, shouldn’t have done that. You’ll know my manner was good. My manner was off with, without a lick of training. Just practice with the sound up. And then the same thing. Turn the screen around. Listen, you know, when it’s good, you know, when it’s not good. If you have filler words, uh, or the like, and, and you’re a sports guy, Tom, so you can relate this to sports. Most professional athletes spend an infants amount of time actually playing their game. Most of it is working out practicing.  That’s what you do. In, Ted talks, we coach people that they should practice one hour of practice for every minute of presentation.  And  the sports guys know that I’m correct. I mean, take a quarterback, take take any professional athlete.Very well,  especially a runner. I mean, they’re out there for, what? Why would you think you can get up in front of a crowd, where possibly your job depends upon it, and just wing it? You can’t, he can’t do that. TOM And the other thing, to extend the sports metaphor is that when they are actually on the playing field or on the court, the vast majority of time spent is remaining calm mindset, keeping focused, setting aside the noise in your head. And there’s a great book, ‘The Power of Full Engagement,’ I think it’s called. I’ll mention it in the show notes. They talked about the tennis player, Yvonne Lendell, and how between points, he was a machine. He played in the eighties, into the nineties. I think he was a machine. And he had the exact same routine between each point before each serve bouncing the ball. He would get the ball from the ball boy and return the ball no matter what condition it was in. He would wipe his head the same way after each point. He would bounce the ball the same number of times. And it was all part of the machinery of, alright, I’m clearing my head. I’m envisioning, I’m focusing. A And I know that mindset and, and, confidence and focus is also a big part of what you preach and what you teach, Fred. FRED Well, you just made me think of, and this is what stories do. We go into the hard draft of our brain and pull out another story. That made me think about first responders. That’s why they’re always, always practicing. Who would run into a building full of flames? If you’ve really thought about it, who rushes into a building with a gunman who’s got a AR 15 knowing that he is killing people. I mean, you just get to react and do it. You can’t think about it. And that’s why all that practicing pays off for first responders. That’s why they do what they do. Same analogy, right? TOM Yeah, exactly. So, so let’s talk for a moment about the elevator speech. So many of us are not working in the office building anymore. A lot of work from home, a lot of remote work. So maybe people have forgotten the notion of an elevator speech. You’re in the elevator, you’re meeting somebody that you want to tell about your business, make that initial please to meet you speech. You only have from the first floor to the fourth floor. How are you gonna make the maximum impact? And so, call it an elevator speech. Call it your introductory presentation.Whatever it may be. It’s that short public presentation. And what are the things that people need to know to get the elevator speech just right? FRED Thanks for asking. Clear, concise, and consistent. Because your goals are this, you want them to know exactly what you do. So you can do one of two things. I know what you do, Tom. I don’t need it right now. But if ever need in the future, you’re the guy. Sounds like you’re, you’re an expert. My radar is now up and if I ever hear somebody says, “I gotta tell some stories. I’ve got to really firm up my marketing and stories are the way to go. You know, anybody who does that?” You want to be referred and you want to be hired and you wanna make it clear, concise, and consistent. Too many elevator speeches, and I’ve had ’em that are far too long.  And you want people to know exactly what you do. Now, here’s the test for an elevator speech. I give you my elevator speech. If you can give it to somebody who didn’t hear it and they know what I do, that’s a winner. But you also wanna do a little bit different. So my Twitter type, to your point of being clear, concise, and consistent, “I’m Fred Miller. I speak coach and write about networking, public speaking and presentation skills.” You want to make it real, real simple. Simple words, simple language. You don’t impress people with words they don’t know. Just like telling stories, right.  You make them feel stupid. And if I feel stupid, I’m not gonna work with you. I’m not gonna refer you. But you could do be a little, little bit different. So you might ask me, when we’re in a line, and you say, “I’m Tom, I do storytelling. I help people with that. What do you do?” And instead of just giving you the Twitter type I just gave you, I could say, “Well, thanks for asking Tom. I’m going to answer your question by asking you one. Have you ever been to an event and you’re watching and listening to the speaker and you’re thinking to yourself, ‘Well that guy’s good. I mean, he is really good. He’s consistent, he’s authoritative. He has a passion for what he is doing. Man,I wish I could do that. I’m the guy they hire to develop, practice and deliver presentations like that.  You probably don’t know anyone who needs to improve their public speaking and presentation skills, right?” That’s a little bit of a pattern interrupt and not what they were expecting. TOM I love that. FRED You don’t know anybody has any good stories, do you? TOM I love it. FRED Or you, to your case, you don’t have a story, do you? Everyone’s got a story, don’t they, Tom? TOM Exactly. And you could turn it the other way around also. It could be, have you been you ever been sitting in the audience where the guys on stage, the speakers on stage, are just sweating and fumbling and the audience is fidgeting and it’s just a total mess? Well, I’m the guy who prevents that from happening. FRED Oh, I like that. Yeah. Yeah. Oh, absolutely! And it’s a little bit different than what they’re expecting. You’re really expecting your name company, blah, blah, blah. And, again, you gotta keep it short. So the rule of three is magical. One for emphasis, zoom is dynamite. Two for comparison, up, down, fast, slow. Mm-hmm. Three for completeness. I’ll give some examples. Four or more for a list. Shopping list or to-do list. So I speak, coach, and write about networking, public speaking and presentation skills. If you want your audience to get it, you need to educate, entertain, and explain. Because too many people, you’ve heard them, “What do you do?” And they go on and on. You’re thinking, gosh, I guess I’ll rotate my tires, change my oil, wash my windows. I don’t think I wanna hire them. TOM Yeah, exactly. So you mentioned a moment ago, zoom, and I know, because we’ve spent time together online and, and chatted on Zoom. You have really embraced it. You’ve really figured out how to show up online effectively. You look great right now. You’re well lit. I know you have a lot of magic that you could do with your backgrounds if you wanted to do it. Talk to us a little bit about the differences between showing up on Zoom versus, well, in person. The differences and similarities really between showing up on Zoom and showing up on a stage in front of a hundred people or a thousand people. FRED Well, Zoom might be tougher because you don’t know what these people are doing. A lot of times you get all these cameras and you tell them to blank their cameras becausev you don’t want everyone looking at everyone else. But they may be playing games, they may be eating. But a couple things are important. My background is not distracting. Too many people have too many things in their background. Inappropriate doesn’t even begin to explain what some of those things are. And we can’t multitask because I’m looking at the person, you got another screen back there and what’s in that cabinet? And I, I think I see some books of mine. No, that’s distracting. Big, big thing. We cannot multitask. And the best example I like to give, if you’re watching any cable news show and that ticker tape, you’ve seen it, Tom, comes across the bottom of the screen. If you’re reading that ticker tape, you have no idea what they’re talking about. And to prove that, when the commercial comes on, the ticker tape is gone. Advertisers would never waste their money like that. So you won’t get away with distractions. Plain black shirt, you know, no distractions, no bling. I don’t have any necklaces or jewelry or anything.You want people concentrating on you. You mentioned lighting.  I’ve got lighting here, here overhead. Because non-verbal communication surpasses verbal, people believe what they see.  If they’re not in sync, they believe what they see. And the example there, I like to give the story to your point, when Obama, one of the best presenters there is debated Romney, for the first time in a presidential debate. He lost because his body language showed that he didn’t even wanna be there. He seemed aloof, disengaged, and he lost because of his body language. So yeah, you gotta be careful. But zoom, if used with the right software, can make a big, big difference. TOM Yeah. Do you have any of those buttons handy for? FRED Do I have any of those buttons handy? But let’s, oh, let’s see. What can we do here? TOM Show us the cluttered room. I love that. FRED Oh, oh, okay. You remember? Okay. Yeah.L et me see what I’ve got here. Uh, I got one like, that’s, see, that’s really distracting. And here I am up in heaven. I’m sorry, Tom, I I don’t see your name here. Well, you’re a young guy. Whoa! Wait a minute there. Got a couple of markers for you here, Tom. Let’s see, clutter, uh oh. This is a mess. Oh, here we are. You remember my garage?  It’s so embarrassing. But people will go on a zoom call with a background like this.  Like really, really? But sometimes  if I was gonna talk about elevator speeches, this would be kind of appropriate. TOM Right. But most elevator speeches, you’re kind of look. Oh Yeah. So, uh, yeah, there it is. So, a couple of, a couple of notes about that in all seriousness. Okay. So number one you’re able to pull off what you just did because we talked about it before. You have great lighting, you have a great setup, you have a good green screen behind you and you could pull it off. I was in a meeting earlier today with a woman who had the green screen thing going. She had a background behind her, but I don’t think she couldn’t possibly have actually had a green screen. Cause you know, we’ve all been there. Right. They move their arms and their arm disappears. FRED Yeah. And  wear a yellow shirt and you disappear. TOM Exactly. And, and so you really have to be conscious of the technology and the tools that you’re using. And the other thing I wanted to take from what you just did is, humor. Every time I see you speak, you make me smile. You make me laugh. You’re delivering serious and important lessons, but you’re doing it. This goes straight to the stuff that I talk about also. You’re doing it in an entertaining way. Information alone is not enough. FRED That’s right. Educate, entertain, and explain. We like to be entertained. If I’m entertaining you, I have your attention. If I have your attention, that increases the odds. You get it. And getting it is the goal of all communication.  Verbal, written, or visual.  Because if you don’t get it, even if you don’t agree, that’s fine. But you gotta get it otherwise we can’t have a conversation going forward. You deal with that all the time. But, and I appreciate your kind words, but this, this is not my first setup. We’ve been doing it as you know, we had to cut an interview short. because I had some bad connection with my microphone. I’m actually using my iPhone as my camera and there’s an app for that which makes a big, big difference. And then some other software. But some of that stuff is worth the investment. TOM Yeah. Exactly. I can’t tell you how often I get onto a zoom call with somebody and somebody says, wow, what kind of camera are you using? FRED Well, you’ve got nice cameras. I know. TOM And it matters. It extends your credibility. People know that you’re a serious person. It really matters. And I don’t wanna just I don’t wanna suggest that if your background stinks and if you’re breaking some of these rules that Fred’s describing, that you’re, you know, all of a sudden your credibility is down the toilet. The person I was talking to earlier was a really credible professional. But she was undermining that credibility by looking kind of like a clown with her disappearing arms in the whole bit. FRED So it’s little bitty things that make a big difference in telling stories and in presenting. Write your own introduction. I didn’t write mine for you because you’re a master of that. That’s what you do. But too many times they’re going to grab your bio and quite frankly, nobody cares that I went to City, I went to Mizzou, and I got two kids and four grandkids, and now I’m gonna talk about public speaking. It’s got nothing to do with it. Always write your own introduction because that is a speaking opportunity for the person introducing you. And many times they don’t even wanna do it, but if you can make them a hero – Wow.  Makes a big difference. FRED Sure. Exactly. TOM Yeah. So Fred, where can people find all this great No Sweat Public Speaking stuff that we talked about. The books. FRED Thanks! I’ve got a website, NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Got lots of articles on there, lots of, podcasts, you know, took that from you. And, also you can get books. I’ve got ’em on Amazon. And I’m available for, coaching and giving presentations. It can be a game changer. I mean, this is how you built some of your business, Tom. You’ve been speaking a long time. It builds your credibility. This is building your credibility. TOM Yeah. Exactly. Any parting thoughts, Fred? FRED We, we go back a long, long ways. I mean, both our hair was black, you know I didn’t have a beard at the time. It makes a big, big difference, uh, how you present yourself. And it can change the world. You know zoom’s change the world and do those little things and make a difference. Have a good camera, have a good microphone. You taught me that. I trade in my other one. And  do those other little things and your presentations will be – NO SWEAT! TOM Beautiful. Fred, always a great pleasure to hang out with you. Please go check out nosweatpublicspeaking.com. Go to Amazon, buy these books, learn everything you can from Fred. He’s loaded with wisdom and experience about this stuff. And it will make you a better public speaker, more business opportunities, more credibility, all that good stuff that comes with showing up with authenticity, with authority on stage. So Fred Miller, thank you so much for being here. FRED Thank you. Good to see you again, my friend. TOM And we’ll see you again down the road. Thank you. Thanks for listening to the Story Power Marketing Show with Tom Ruwitch. If you liked what you heard today, visit StoryPowerMarketing.com/resources where you can sign up for Tom’s entertaining, informative, must-read emails, download free business building resources, and discover other opportunities to help you harness the power of storytelling. That’s story power marketing.com/resources to help you captivate prospects, inspire them to act and grow your business with greater ease and joy. Also, please remember to subscribe to the Story Power Marketing Show with Tom Ruwitch and review it on iTunes or wherever you get your favorite podcasts. ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

Recipes for Disaster Presentations are an essential part of communication in many business and academic settings. Whether pitching an idea, giving a lecture, or delivering a business proposal. . . The Way You OPEN YOUR PRESENTATION sets the tone for the entire experience. Unfortunately, there are certain approaches that can turn your presentation into a complete disaster right from the get-go. In this post, I’ll focus on the absolute worst ways to open a presentation and offer advice on how to avoid them. Starting with an Apology: Picture this: you step onto the stage, ready to captivate your audience, and the first words out of your mouth are  – an Apology. Starting your presentation with phrases like: “I’m sorry I didn’t have enough time to prepare” or “I apologize for not having slides” instantly sets a negative tone. That verbiage undermines your credibility, tells listeners you don’t really care about meeting their expectations, and perhaps suffer from a lack of knowledge and confidence. Instead, focus on delivering a Strong Opening that grabs the audience’s attention, makes them want to hear more, and leaves no room for apologies. Reading from Slides Word for Word: No one comes to read your presentation. Nothing kills audience engagement faster than a presenter who simply reads the text verbatim from their slides. This approach is lazy, uninteresting, and fails to add any value beyond what the audience can read for themselves. And because your audience will be reading ahead of you, there will be a disconnect in your reading and them listening. Instead, use universally understood, high-quality images in your slides. You, the speaker, should provide the text with your voice. Using Overused and Clichéd Openers: Starting presentations with clichés and tired phrases like “Webster’s Dictionary defines…” or “Today, I’m going to talk to you about…” is a surefire way to bore your audience and make them tune out. These generic openers lack originality and fail to create any anticipation or excitement. Instead, strive for an engaging opening that is unique to your topic and resonates with your audience’s interests, needs, or pain points. The research shows we will do more to avoid pain than seek pleasure. Incorporating “Pain” in your opening will grab and hold the audience’s attention. The opening of a presentation plays a crucial role in capturing the attention and interest of your audience. By avoiding the worst ways to open a presentation you can set yourself up for a successful talk. Instead, aim for an engaging, relevant, and memorable opening that sparks curiosity, establishes your credibility, and sets the stage for a captivating presentation. Do that, and I guarantee your next presentation will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

You want your audience to remember your message! Here’s how to make that happen: Start with a strong opening: Begin your speech with a compelling anecdote, a thought-provoking question, a surprising fact, or a powerful quote. This will grab your audience’s attention from the get-go and make them more likely to remember what follows. Tell stories: We are wired to respond to stories. Incorporate relevant, engaging, and preferably, personal stories into your speech to make your points more relatable and memorable. Stories evoke emotions and help create a connection with your audience, enhancing their ability to remember the key messages. Use visual aids: Visual aids such as slides, props, or videos can significantly enhance the memorability of your speech. People tend to remember information better when it’s presented visually. They literally “see” what you want to convey. Create impactful and visually appealing visuals that support your key points and make them easier to remember. Keep it clear, concise, and focused: Have your talk well-organized and easy to follow. Avoid unnecessary jargon and complex language that may confuse or bore your audience. You don’t impress people with words they don’t know. You make them feel stupid and they will tune you out! Utilize repetition: We learn through reinforcement, so repeat key points or phrases throughout your speech to strengthen them in your audience’s minds. Repetition can help solidify important ideas and make them more memorable. However, be careful not to overdo it, as excessive repetition can become monotonous. Incorporate audience participation: Engage your audience by involving them in your speech. Ask questions, encourage discussions, or conduct interactive activities that relate to your topic. When people actively participate, they become more invested in the content and are more likely to remember it. Use humor: Humor can be a powerful tool for making your speech memorable. It lightens the atmosphere, captures attention, and makes your message more enjoyable. Ensure your humor is appropriate and relevant to the topic. End with a strong conclusion: “The last thing you say and do will be the first thing the audience remembers.” Finish your speech with a memorable conclusion that summarizes your key points and leaves a lasting impression. Consider using a memorable quote, a call to action, or a thought-provoking statement that encourages reflection. Practice and deliver confidently: Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and delivery. My BEST TIP for Practicing is HERE. Confidence in your delivery can significantly impact how well your speech is received and remembered. Capturing and retaining people’s attention is a complex task. Utilize these strategies that increase your chances of creating a memorable speech and it will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

https://nosweatpublicspeaking.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/An-Effective-Elevator-Speech.-.-.mp3 We’ve all been there. You go to a networking event, social function, or seminar and the host says, “Before we get started let’s go around the room. When it’s your turn, stand up and tell us who you are and what you do. Give us your Elevator Speech.” An Effective Elevator Speech should be: Clear and concise: The speech should convey a clear and concise message about who you are and what you do. Avoid using technical jargon or complex language that might confuse or alienate your audience. Keep it simple and easy to understand. Example: “I’m Fred Miller.  I speak, coach, and write about networking, public speaking, and presentation skills.” Engage and pique curiosity: Grab the listener’s attention by starting with a compelling statement or a thought-provoking question. This helps to create a sense of curiosity and intrigue, making the listener want to know more. Example: “Who believes Speaking Opportunities are business, career, and leadership opportunities?” Highlight your unique value proposition: Clearly articulate the unique value you bring to the table. What sets you apart from others in your field? What problem do you solve or need do you fulfill? Emphasize the benefits and outcomes that your audience can expect by engaging with you or your product/service. Example: “Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire me because they want to improve their networking, public speaking, and presentation skills. Doing so will increase business, career, and leadership opportunities.” Connect emotionally to your audience, even if it is only one person: People are often driven by emotions when making decisions. We will do more to avoid pain than seek pleasure. Incorporate an emotional appeal into your Elevator Speech, whether it’s through storytelling, sharing a personal connection, or highlighting the positive impact you can make in someone’s life. Example: “What opportunities is the Fear of Public Speaking preventing you from achieving?” Spark further conversation: End your speech with a call to action that encourages further discussion or exploration. This could involve suggesting a meeting, inviting the listener to visit your website or social media profiles, or providing your contact information. Make it easy for the listener to take the next step in connecting with you. Example: “You probably don’t know anyone who wants to improve their public speaking, presentation skills, or elevator speech, do you? If so, we should schedule a conversation.” Asked in this manner will evoke more responses. It’s not what they were expecting. Keep in mind the goal of an Elevator Speech is to leave a lasting impression and create an opportunity for further conversation and connection. By incorporating these elements, you can craft a compelling and memorable Elevator Speech that captivates your audience and is absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

That will make a HUGE difference! Those Three Things Are: 1. Tell your audience how Questions will be handled. In your Opening tell them when questions will be taken. Telling your audience from the get-go when you’ll be taking questions lets them know not to interrupt your talk because you told them when you’ll have Q&A. A question about something in a different section of your presentation can throw off your talk and confuse your audience. You eliminate that by telling when you’ll take questions. If someone asks a question on material you’ve not yet covered, say, “Do me a favor and write that question down. If I haven’t answered it, when it’s time for questions on that topic, be sure to ask. Thank you!” For longer presentations, take questions after each section, only on that section, and before your Closing. Important: Take questions Before you Close your presentation. This is because of the Law of Primacy and Recency. Your audience best remembers the first and last  things you say and do. This is why you want a Strong Opening and a STRONGER Closing. Example: “I’m going to discuss the components, parts, and elements of a presentation. I have time set aside after each section for questions just on that section. I have time set aside at the end for questions. Then I’ll deliver my closing.” 2. Issue a Disclaimer. A DISCLAIMER, early in your Presentation will Help Your Audience GET IT! If you deliver information an attendee doesn’t agree with they may start to view you with a bit of disbelief. If this occurs several times, they might tune you, and your message, out completely. Example: I’m going to talk about my way to develop and deliver a great Elevator Speech. It works really well for me and many who follow my advice. However, there are some who teach it differently and their format works well, also. My advice is to “Be a Sponge!” Absorb everything, squeeze out what you don’t need, and do it your own way. The reason to do that is threefold. Number One It gets their attention. They weren’t expecting that. Some speakers want to be seen as the ultimate authority on their topic. Number Two It gives me more credibility By saying, “My way is not the only way” I’m acknowledging I’m like most in the audience because I don’t know everything and accept the views of others. Number Three It opens up their mind to taking in everything and actually squeezing out what they don’t agree with. 3. Tell them you’ll be asking for “Lessons Learned.” Asking early for “Lessons Learned” will help Your Audience GET IT! Getting attendees to share something they thought has value is an important part of many presentations. The research shows: Audiences have very short attention spans. It is unusual for someone to give the speaker their undivided attention for the entire presentation. Information considered new and important by some can easily be missed by other attendees. Example: Before I close my talk, I’m going to ask for “Lessons Learned.” So if your hear something of value, please write it down and be prepared to share it with others when I ask. Do these things three things in your Openings and I guarantee they will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

The formula for the Body of a Presentation is: Make a Point  –  Tell a STORY! (Preferably, a personal one.) Here are some reasons WHY to use Stories in your presentations: Stories are relatable: When we hear a story, it activates the parts of our brain that process language and the parts that process experiences. This dual processing makes stories more memorable and easier to understand because we are able to connect the story to our own experiences and emotions. By using stories in presentations, you can tap into this natural human tendency to connect with and relate to the information being presented. Stories are memorable: Our brains are wired to remember stories. In fact, studies have shown that we are 22 times more likely to remember a story than a series of facts or statistics. This is because stories activate different parts of our brain, including the areas responsible for memory and emotion. By using stories in presentations, you can create a mental picture in the minds of your audience that they are more likely to remember long after the presentation is over. Stories add depth: Stories can help to add depth and meaning to the message being presented. By providing context and illustrating the impact of the message in a way that statistics and data cannot, stories can help to make the message more meaningful and relatable. Stories can also help to make complex or abstract ideas more understandable by breaking them down into relatable, real-world examples. Stories create emotion: Emotion is a powerful tool for persuasion. When we feel an emotional connection to something, we are more likely to remember it and take action based on it. Stories have the ability to create emotion in the audience by tapping into their own experiences and emotions. By using stories that evoke emotion, you can create a more powerful connection with the audience and make the message more persuasive. Personal Stores are preferred. NO ONE, unless you’ve given permission, can tell your story but YOU! YOU have many stories of overcoming adversity, doing something that went against the majority, failing and lessons learned from those experiences. Those are the stories that will connect emotionally with your audience. Use them! Overall, using stories in presentations is an effective way to engage the audience, make the message more memorable and meaningful, and create an emotional connection that can lead to action. By incorporating stories into your presentations, you can help to ensure that your message is not only heard, but remembered and acted upon. Use personal stories in your presentations and I guarantee they will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ——————————————————————————————————————————————————— About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, andPresentation Skills. They do this because they know:"Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities." They also know:We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com.“ NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated!

What Makes a Great Presenter? LISTEN! A great presenter goes beyond just being good. They possess exceptional qualities that can captivate and inspire their audience. Here are eleven qualities that make a great presenter: 1. Authenticity A great presenter is authentic, genuine, and relates easily to an audience. This helps to establish trust and rapport with them. 2. Charisma A great presenter has charisma and a magnetic personality that draws people in and keeps them engaged. 3. Storytelling Stories, when told well, make an emotional connection with an audience. A great presenter is a skilled storyteller who can use narrative to convey complex ideas in a way that is memorable and impactful. Those stories reinforce the points of the speaker’s presentation. 4. Visual aids Visual aids such as images, videos, and diagrams can enhance a presentation and make it more engaging and memorable. A great presenter has mastered this element of presenting. 5. Creativity Doing something out of the ordinary will capture the attention of an audience and be more memorable than ordinary presentations. 6. Humor Appropriate humor can break the ice, lighten the mood, and make presentations more enjoyable. A great presenter has that skill. 7. Clarity A great presenter communicates their message with clarity and precision. They use simple words and phrases that are easy to understand. 8. Empathy A great presenter has empathy for their audience. They understand their needs, concerns, and interests, and tailor their presentation accordingly. 9. Passion Passion trumps everything! Add knowledge plus technique, which a great presenter does, and that speaker will own the audience! 10. Confidence A great presenter has “Confidence in their Competence,” and exudes it. This helps establish credibility and authority with their audience. 11. Preparation A rule of thumb for preparation for TEDTalk presenters I’ve coached is: “One hour of preparation for every minute of presentation.” A great presenter does this and more, meticulously, leaving no stone unturned in their research and planning, and rehearses their delivery until it is flawless. Overall, a great presenter is someone who can inspire, inform, and entertain their audience, leaving a lasting impression long after the presentation is over. Embrace the eleven qualities of a great presenter and I guarantee your presentations will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation

A presentation is a crucial tool for any speaker to convey their message effectively to the audience. It is a platform to showcase your ideas, passion, or products to a group of people. However, the way you start your presentation can make or break the entire event. A Poor Opening can lead to a loss of interest and quickly lose an audience. Here are some of the WORST ways to open a presentation: Being Late: Starting a presentation late is one of the most unprofessional things a speaker can do. It shows a lack of respect for the audience’s time and creates a negative impression. The audience will disengage themselves from your presentation as they may have already lost faith in your ability to manage time effectively. Starting with a Joke or Story that has nothing to do with the topic of the speech. It might be a great story or joke, but if it isn’t relevant to your topic it throws the audience a curve ball from the get-go. Reading from Notes: Your audience will quickly become annoyed and lose interest if you just read from a set of notes without any emotion or engagement. This can lead to a lack of energy in the room and an overall lack of attention from them. Overusing Jargons: Using too many technical terms or jargons in the beginning of the presentation can confuse and overwhelm the audience. People are not impressed with words and phrases they don’t know. They feel stupid and may lose interest in the presentation if they are unable to follow the content. Starting with a Sales Pitch: The audience may feel put off if you start with a sales pitch. This is especially true if the presentation was marketed as informative or educational. An audience wants to be informed and engaged, not sold to. Starting with an Overly Complex or Boring Introduction: The audience will quickly become disinterested if the opening of the presentation is overly complex or boring. The opening should be simple, concise, and engaging, providing the audience with a clear understanding of what your talk will be about. In conclusion, a poor opening can lead to a disastrous presentation. It is essential to start a presentation with a clear and concise introduction that engages the audience. By avoiding the worst ways to open a presentation, a speaker can set the stage for a successful and memorable event. Don’t use any of the above in your presentation openings and they will be absolutely, positively – NO SWEAT! ———————————————————————————————————————————————————- About the Author Fred E. Miller is a speaker, an international coach, and the author of the books, “NO SWEAT Public Speaking!” and “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. Businesses, Individuals, and Organizations hire him because they want to improve their Networking, Public Speaking, and Presentation Skills. They do this because they know: Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. They also know: We perceive really great speakers to be Experts. We like to work with Experts. He shows them how to: Develop, Practice, and Deliver Fantastic Presentations! with – NO SWEAT! Services: Keynote Speaker Workshop Facilitator Breakout Sessions Personal and Group Public Speaking and Presentation Coaching Topics: Lessening The Fear of Public Speaking with – NO SWEAT! Crafting Your Elevator Speech, Floor by Floor with – NO SWEAT! Speaking Opportunities are Business, Career, and Leadership Opportunities. We are All Self-Employed! Subscribe to my YouTube Channel, Podcast Channel, and connect with me on LinkedIn and Facebook. My books can be purchased on amazon.com. “NO SWEAT Public Speaking” “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” Audible offers “NO SWEAT Elevator Speech!” as an audio book. If you have any comments, questions, or suggestions about this post or other posts please contact me: Fred@NoSweatPublicSpeaking.com. Thank  you for your continued support. It is greatly appreciated! #Leadership #Questions #ExecutiveSpeakerCoaching #ElevatorSpeech #PresentationTrainer #Communication #SpeakerTraining #UltimateGuideforPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeakingAuthor #PublishedAuthor #VirtualVideoConferences #PublicSpeakingCoach #audience #UltimateGuideforPresentations #VirtualVideoEvents #PresentationTraining #Talking #ElevatorPitch #ExecutivePresentationCoaching #NOSWEATPublicSpeaking #PublicSpeaking #SalesPresentations #Speaking #KeynoteSpeaker #SelfImprovement #PublicSpeakingTraining #Management #EXPRESSElevatorSpeech #ExecutiveSpeechCoach #PresentationCoach #GuideforPublicSpeaking #VirtualVideoMeetings #LesseningtheFearofPublicSpeaking #ElevatorSpeechWorkshops #CommunicationSkills #FredMiller #VirtualVideo #GuideforPresentations #MarketingStrategy #Networking #QampA #presentationskills #LeadershipDevelopment #PresentationTrainingStLouis #PublicSpeakingClasses #ExecutivePresentationCoach #TEDTalkCoach #Success #PublicSpeakerTrainer #PublicSpeakingClassesNearMe #ProfessionalSpeaker #PresentationSkillsCoaching #StLouisSpeakerStLouisPresentationCoach #presentation