Speaking

Every speech is a performance, whether in a conference room, a classroom, a courtroom, or an auditorium. Thus, a speech must be more than the words the speaker says; it must also entertain. A good speaker adds to the words by connecting with the audience, by showing emotion and attitude, by demonstrating what he or she is talking about, and by entertaining the audience.

In workshops, interactive lectures, and through one-on-one coaching sessions, we work with business executives, lawyers, and other professionals to practice specific techniques for effective public speaking. Below you will find topics, typical goals, and content for the Speaking classes.

• Goals:
  • To feel comfortable, confident, and competent as a speaker.
  • To develop successful individual speaking styles.
  • To learn techniques for conveying energy to an audience.
  • To learn techniques for increasing contact with an audience.
• Topics:
  • Delivery
  • Gestures and using your hands
  • Posture and moving
  • Voice: inflection, pacing, and pausing
  • Using visual aids
  • Speaking from a podium
  • Speaking while seated at a table
  • Talking on the phone
  • Reading from a text
  • Relaxation
• Content:
  • Openings and closings
  • Transitions
  • Persuasion
  • What audiences remember
  • Humor
  • Presentation software
  • Communication styles
• Workshops:
  • One and two-day workshops for up to 8 to 15 participants:
    • In the basic one-day workshop, each participant gives at least three short, extemporaneous talks, which the group reviews together using videotape. In addition, each participant presents a prepared speech, which depends on the individual’s experience and goals.
    • In a two-day workshop, we add exercises that focus on specific skills, and the group analyzes the content structure of each other’s speeches.
• Lectures:
  • Interactive programs of between 45 minutes and two hours for any size audience:
    • Using in-class exercises, we discuss the basics of clear and effective speaking, whether you are speaking to one listener on a telephone or to a packed auditorium.
• Individual Coaching:
  • • Using videotape, we work one-on-one to address issues of confidence and, to prepare for a specific presentation, or to review and perfect covered in a lecture or workshop.

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