Communicate clearly

Public speaking tip – Let your hands flow freely

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Newer public speakers often wonder what to do with their hands. They assume they’ll be nervous, and fear they’ll look foolish if they don’t have just the “right” gestures.

In this public speaking tip, I say: Let ‘em be.

By that I mean leave your hands free to do what they want. Don’t worry. Even if you are quite nervous, your hands won’t do anything bizarre. In fact, they tend to act rather naturally while you’re speaking.

Hands generally follow the flow of the presentation. As you look one way, you will naturally gesture in that direction. Then as you turn to the other direction, the other hand will offer a gesture.

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Handle media interviews with confidence and poise

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On occasion you may be asked to comment for a story. The reporter could be seeking information on a topic related to your industry or reporting on something that occurred at your firm. While a crisis requires special handling, an occasional phone interview is something you can address. These pointers will help make your interview go smoothly.
 
Know your facts Chances are the reporter will ask about routine matters. Try to imagine the types of questions you’ll be asked, and compose answers. (Also, when the reporter calls, have your assistant gather some idea of what will be covered.) Notes and other necessary information should be at your fingertips. The conversation may be relatively brief–perhaps 10 to 15 minutes–so make sure you can find the pertinent details quickly.
 

The first time truly is the first time

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When talking about an event that has occurred, avoid adding first unless you are referring to the initial event. For example: “When we were first married….” This would apply to two people who had been married to each other but then got divorced and remarried. Just say, “When we were married….” You may also hear … Read more

Bi- vs. Semi-

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These examples should help you use the two prefixes properly. The magazine is published on a bi-monthly basis. (Every two months.) Lawmakers are working on the state’s biennial budget. (The budget period lasts two years. Note change in spelling.)   Semi-, on the other hand, refers to one-half of a time period. We get paid on a … Read more

Compliment vs. Complement

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When used as a verb, compliment means to offer commendation or praise. The coach complimented the team for its efforts. As an adjective, compliment refers to something provided at no cost. Each case of wine includes a complimentary set of glasses.   Complement means to augment a process or complete a group. The beige carpet … Read more