Ever since humans developed language we have used stories as a powerful method transfering knowledge. We teach our children through stories. We build relationships and bonds through sharing stories. We are entertained by stories.

I would argue that we spend much of our non-work time storytelling.   Socially we understand that the best stories are engaging, entertaining, and memorable.  Yet when it comes to business communications we have a tendency to throw all our experience [...]

Storytelling in speeches and presentations is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

In a previous post I recommended that that speakers  avoid using  jokes in favour of self deprecating stories. Recently I had the pleasure of meeting Jan Jack of PerfectVerse who used to be a corporate secretary but is now a professional swriter, speaker and comedian.

Jan  specialises in writing humorous poems for special events and corporate speeches. During our conversation she told be how she had been commissioned by the CEO of a multinational company to help him make [...]

Building humour into your speeches and presentations is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

I came across this short video via youtube and its simple yet profound message just resonated with me.       So much so that I just had to share it with you.   I hope it will mean something to you to.

We have [...]

Public speaking – setting free our human voice is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

Today I am indebted to Nancy Duarte of Duarte Design and author of the fantastic new book “Resonate”  for drawing my attention to this inspiring presentation.   Watch it and enjoy conductor Benjamin Zander’s passion and his command of the audience’s emotions.  WOW!

Now share your thoughts by posting a comment and [...]

Leadership, Music and Presentations – Watch this TED video is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

Stories are incredibly important tools for communicating all sorts of information. I have been an “unconscious” story collector now for many years and as a trainer, these stories have been incredibly helpful to my participants in bringing the material I teach to life.

To be honest I tend to take them for granted because I use them without thinking but today their importance was drawn to my attention. It was the final presentations and feedback session from a class of managers [...]

Don’t underestimate the power of storytelling in business and education is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

In this day and age it seems like everybody is looking for the quick fix without any effort.   Whether it’s making money, getting fit, loosing weight or becoming a celebrity.  Andit seems to me that this obsession for instant success is supported and encouraged by adverts for all sorts of products both online and offline which claim to help you achieve success in your chosen field without doing anything!

I find the same think with aspiring presenters.   They want to go [...]

Don’t skimp on practice if you want to be great! is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing

In my last post I focused on the delivery side of an impromptu speech but what about the content?   How do I stop by brain going blank and running out of things to say?

Well here are two further technique to help you wow your audience ;

Impromptu speaking tips – part 2 is a post from: Inter-Activ Presenting and Influencing