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Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

Sep 7, 2023 | Body Language, Charisma, Communication Skills, Personality, Presentation Skills, Voice

Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

How do you and your messages affect the audience?
17 hints that someone is a manipulator

Self-perception and impact analysis

 

How do you affect people in conversations, speeches, and presentations, in interviews? We all have our blind spots. It is a good reason because for experts, company representatives, and politicians, the impact analysis is part of the preparation of a speech, presentation, statement, interview, or discussion. To explore the effect before the real event has a lot of advantages. How do you and your message affect your audience?

Overview

 

Do you know how you affect other people?

 

How do you interact with other people when you meet them? For example, how do you communicate in meetings and presentations? We communicate constantly. Yes, you too! And even if you do not intend to. Whether we want it or not; much of what we do or do not do is perceived and interpreted by others. Your messages are not always understood as you want them to be.

 

 

 

Professional impact analysis

 

For experts, many professional company spokespersons, company representatives, and politicians, the impact analysis is part of the preparation of a performance, such as speeches, presentations, statements, interviews, and discussions. So you can explore the effect even before the performance in front of an audience. This will tell you in advance how you and your message will be perceived.

 

 

 

Honest and constructive feedback

 

The more influential your position in a company is, the more you are under observation. Then every moment becomes an appearance in front of an audience. Every detail gets meaning. Whether in the media, at events, and even in seemingly private situations; every word that is said and omitted can be interpreted. Every detail shapes the image that the public has in mind about you and your message.

  • How do you affect others?
  • How are you understood?
  • Which image do you convey?
  • In which aspects can you improve?

 

I will give you a useful picture of how you are perceived in public. This is particularly beneficial for executives and representatives of companies, associations, and political parties.

 

 

 

Impact analysis

 

Just a few thoughtless words in front of the audience, microphone, and camera can have consequences. For this reason, it is worthwhile to prepare carefully for important situations. For many professional company spokespersons, company representatives, and politicians, the impact analysis is part of the preparation.

Even many experienced speakers are not so experienced when it comes to media appearances. It does not belong to everyday life for everyone. To master such situations you need to be sovereign in front of the camera and in studio situations, provocative journalist questions, and vehement attacks of an opponent in a debate or podium discussion.

Better safe than sorry. Afterward, we are often smarter, but then it is a bit too late. Better: An impact analysis provides a speaker with professional feedback before the actual event. Get feedback before the critics get their turn. Why should you take unnecessary risks? Why should you give up a successful performance? Prepare for crucial situations. Rehearse. Get feedback for it. This allows you to experience the impact beforehand and to optimize it if necessary.

 

 

 

Elements of impact analysis

 

  • Voice
  • Body language
  • Stage presence, enthusiasm, and credibility
  • Choice of words and style
  • Emotional response
  • Arguments and strategy
  • Red thread and structure
  • Key messages
  • Professional repartee
  • Risk analysis
  • Foreseeable effects
  • Act in front of a microphone and camera
  • Dealing with provocative questions and attacks

 

 

 

Your impact analysis

 

How are you perceived, and what can you improve to convincingly present yourself and your message?

Based on your impact analysis, you receive recommendations that help you to optimize your appearance. If you wish, you will receive targeted support for your sovereignty, charisma, and self-marketing for speeches and media appearances. I support you from the impact analysis, and optimization up to the dress rehearsal, or even the accompaniment to the performance. You decide!

The impact analysis can be booked individually for 60 minutes or is the beginning of more comprehensive support for the preparation of an event. This is also possible with sessions via telephone or with video support.

You decide how extensive the analysis is. Many factors affect how you are perceived. Here are examples:

 

 

 

1. Direct analysis

 

A brief meeting is enough to get your first feedback on how you affect other people. You will learn from me immediately a lot about your verbal and body language effects, as well as ways to improve.

 

 

 

2. Evaluation of events

 

In addition to the direct analysis, various sources can be consulted; Recordings of interviews, TV appearances, speeches, social media, etc.

 

 

 

3. Qualitative interviews

 

Qualitative interviews with relevant target groups are used to analyze interesting aspects.

Then you will receive your personal and honest impact analysis. The whole truth or perception of your person!

 

 

 

4. Feedback

 

With this feedback and recommendations, you’ll have what you need to know when you choose to balance expectations with you and your demeanor to reach and convince your audience.

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

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Remarks:

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Related articles

 

P.S.

 

How well do you actually know yourself? What would you like to know about yourself and how you are perceived by other people?

Articles

Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

How do you actually affect people in conversations, speeches and presentations, in interviews? Professional feedback helps. What insights does an impact analysis offer you?

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Integrity is an important part of a character. Integrity is a choice we make, and it’s a choice we must keep making, every moment of our lives. Develop and protect your integrity.

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To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom.

 Socrates

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: June 27, 2009
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/wie-wirken-sie-wirklich/
K:
H:
T: RR
#1890

17 tips for facial expressions in speeches and presentations

Aug 25, 2023 | Body Language, Communication Skills, Personality, Presentation Skills

17 tips for facial expressions in speeches and presentations

What public speakers should know about facial expressions
Facial expression

The importance of facial expressions in public speaking

 

When the topic of body language appears in presentation skills training, the question comes up “Where to put my hands while speaking?”

Mimic is discussed rarely, if at all, with the hint of having a smile on your face. This is a pity because facial expressions can support the message. When facial expressions aren’t right, they can cause damage. What does not fit the personality and role of the speaker is unintentionally funny, damages credibility, and distracts.

This article deals with what it is worth paying attention to as a speaker concerning facial expressions.

Overview

Body language, facial expressions, and public speaking

 

In addition to the content of the speech, as a verbal part, the way of presentation and the non-verbal behavior are of particular importance. These include gestures, eye contact, eye direction, body tension, leg posture, volume, intonation, and, often forgotten, pauses. Pauses before a message produce tension and after a message, they let the message work. In modern rhetoric, facial expressions have become less important than in the past. A facial expression that is too pronounced quickly has a theatrical and posed effect on the audience.

 

 

 

So facial expressions are no longer important?

 

Mimic is important because public speakers who want to convince have to be authentic. And that includes lively facial expressions. Instead of orienting the facial expressions to Asian theater masks or the pantomime from the pedestrian zone, Method-Acting delivers better results. If you mean what you say, this also includes the corresponding emotional states. If you experience inwardly with all your senses what you verbalize, then your face provides the appropriate facial expression anyway. At least as long as you haven’t stopped it with nerve poison against wrinkles.

Leave that deadpan expression to poker players and some politicians. A good presenter realizes that appropriate facial expressions are a significant part of effective communication. Facial expressions are often the key determinant of the meaning behind the message. The audience is watching a speaker’s face during a presentation. When you speak, your face tells more clearly than any other part of your body about your attitudes, feelings, and emotions.

17 tips for facial expressions in your speeches and presentations

 

Your impact as a speaker depends heavily on your body language. You probably have control over the words you speak, are you sure you have control over what you say with your body language?

 

 

 

1. Authentic, authentic, authentic

 

Effective body language supports the message and conveys a strong image of the speaker. Anything that does not fit the personality and role of a public speaker and the message will unintentionally appear funny, damage credibility, and distract from the content and message. Those who mean what they say can automatically display the appropriate facial expressions. This is a frequent topic in my presentation training. Few speakers know how they affect the audience. Professional analysis is very revealing here.

 

 

 

2. Smiling is contagious

 

Unfortunately, many people lose their lively facial expressions under the pressure of speaking in front of an audience. Their faces solidify into a mask. Free your face right at the beginning. For example, when you are welcoming the audience, smile!

With a smile or even a laugh, it is easier to build a bridge with other people. This looks open and friendly. A real smile comes from within and is based on the right mental attitude and not on a mask. Such a permanent grin looks different from a real smile, which is called a Duchenne smile. The Duchenne smile is named after Guillaume Duchenne, a French anatomist who studied many expressions of emotion, focusing on the smile of pure enjoyment. He identified the facial movements that make this genuine smile different from artificial types of smiles. A Duchenne smile is a natural smile of enjoyment, made by contracting the zygomatic major muscle and the orbicularis oculi muscle. In my words; the mouth, the eyes, and the wrinkles around the eyes are involved, and the smile, the cheeks lifting.

 

 

 

3. Emotions

 

It is the presenter’s connection to the words that can bring them to life for the audience. Experience inwardly intensively what you want to convey, and the facial expressions will reflect it. Less is more! Please do not grimace.

 

 

 

4. Lead with your gaze

 

The audience will register where you’re looking. In this way, you can direct the attention of the audience with your gaze. Look where the audience should look.

And be careful with misunderstandings. If you keep looking at the door, it will look as if you would like to escape.

 

 

 

5. Eye contact is connecting

 

If they don’t fit, they can undermine any of your words.

Good speakers know how important facial expressions are. Effective presenters engage one person at a time, focusing long enough to complete a natural phrase and watch it sink in for a moment. With a smile, they convey appreciation to the audience.

Keep looking at all faces, and be attentive. Return a smile. Use clues such as a frown as an occasion to repeat or inquire about a statement in other words.

 

 

 

6. Pulling up the corners of your mouth on one side

 

Some facial expressions can irritate. One-sided lifting of the corners of the mouth can be interpreted as a sign of superiority, and the speaker is then accused of arrogance or cynicism.

 

 

 

7. Enduring smile

 

A permanent smile seems artificial, complacent, or even debilitating. Speakers don’t do themselves any favors.

Such behavior is reminiscent of bad show presenters or used car salesmen from US films. If you smile without a break, you make your counterpart suspicious. Beware of bad facial expressions, i.e. a superimposed smile.

If there are moments during your speech when you want to make the audience think, then that doesn’t fit. When you put on an artificial smile, nobody takes you seriously.

 

 

 

8. A tense jaw

 

Someone who presses their teeth vigorously against each other may look angry and aggressive, or at least cramped.

 

 

 

9. Smiling and showing teeth

 

What is more common in the USA is more irritating in Germany, for example, than piranha smiles. Superficiality and an unfair sales mentality are easily assumed.

 

 

 

10. Grasping the nose or the mouth

 

Do not touch your nose, mouth, or chin during your speech. This is a classic sign of insecurity and is quickly perceived as negative by your audience.

Since Pinocchio this has been considered a sign of lies, and why should you voluntarily sow doubt?

 

 

 

11. Other delicate facial expressions

 

In my articles, Body Language Soothes or harms in delicate situations and 12 tips on how to promote confidence through body language, you will find advice on how body language can help and how it can hurt.

 

 

 

12. Adapt your facial expressions to the size of the group.

 

As your audience grows, your facial expressions should become more pronounced. If the audience in the last row is not able to read your face, your facial expression will be perceived as a neutral expression and thus as your lack of interest.

 

 

 

13. Explore the effect of facial expressions

 

The facial expression usually has a small part in the presentation, which is why its role tends to be underestimated. It plays an important role in convincing the speaker and the message. It is worth exploring the impact.

 

Using all the various muscles that precisely control the mouth, lips, eyes, nose, forehead, and jaw, the human face is estimated to be capable of more than 10,000 different expressions. Explore different ways to use facial expressions. Start with the most common facial expressions and emotions.

There are seven universally recognized emotions shown through facial expressions:

  • anger
  • disgust
  • contempt
  • fear
  • happiness
  • sadness
  • surprise

 

Regardless of culture, these expressions are the same all over the world. They may differ in intensity.

 

 

 

14. Observe your audience

 

Just as your facial expressions provide insight into your emotions, your audience’s facial expressions provide insight into their emotional world.

Read the facial expressions of your audience. If the audience’s expressions are expressionless, for example, there is a possibility that they are intellectually elsewhere because they are bored. Or their facial expressions convey joy and excitement, or they are eagerly receptive or…

By reading your audience’s facial expressions, you are better able to make spontaneous decisions and adjustments to capture attention.

 

 

 

15. Using a lectern or manuscript

 

Wherever your speech manuscript is located, whether as a pile of paper on the lectern or as key point cards in your hand, always avoid looking at the notes all the time. Learn from me how to keep in touch with the audience.

 

 

 

16. Practice, practice, practice

 

As with any presentation skill, facial expression requires practice to develop it to be both authentic and effective. Presenters who care deeply about their message tend to use their entire bodies to support the message.

Practice your presentation and the things you have experienced with me in front of a mirror to concentrate exclusively on your facial expressions during a rehearsal. While practicing in front of the mirror, see if your facial expressions convey the mood you want to create. If your face isn’t showing any emotion, stop, refocus, and do it again. This will help you to explore your expression playfully. The best way to do this is with professional support.

 

 

 

17. Support

 

As a professional speech coach, I will not practice masks with you but will point out potential misunderstandings and promote corresponding situations from within.

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

What do you pay attention to in facial expressions during conversations, speeches, and presentations?

Presenters who care deeply about their message tend to use their entire bodies to support the message. - Karsten Noack

Articles

Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

How do you actually affect people in conversations, speeches and presentations, in interviews? Professional feedback helps. What insights does an impact analysis offer you?

Read More
Just read out speech manuscripts …

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Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

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Feb 21, 2022

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will bring you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in his life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

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Body language: What can actually be read from the eyes? Not only wishes!

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Aug 25, 2021

What can be read from the eyes? More than wishes! The eyes have a big part in human facial expressions. There is a reason why the eyes are called the mirror of the soul. They reveal a lot about our feelings and thoughts, no matter if we want it or not. Eyes can smile, radiate joy, permeate, agree, question, doubt or reject. Learn to read body language.

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Read more

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in group or individual training or coaching.

Published: June 27, 2019
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: October 6, 2021
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/rhetorik-mimik-koerpersprache/
K:
H:
T: RR
#124710

Present the benefits in the beginning of your pitch

Aug 25, 2023 | Coaching & Training, Communication Skills, Pitch, Presentation Design, Presentation Skills

Present The Benefits In The Beginning Of Your Pitch

Presentation skills
 
The opening of your pitch

The opening of your pitch

 

There are many strategies to consider in opening your pitch. Think about it twice, because those first minutes can make or break you.

Overview

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.

Leonardo da Vinci

Pitching business ideas

 

Pitching business ideas is becoming more of an art. Given how easy it is to get distracted as a human being, you must learn the best ways to captivate your audience from the start. To do this, some strategies have been proven to work.

Too many presenters start with the typical introduction and dive right into the sections of the business. Then they state the problem, then the solution, the team, and so on. This is a surefire way to kill the entire room from boredom. Instead, grab the attention of your audience from the beginning and don’t lose it until the end.

 

 

 

Captivate the audience

 

There are some strategies and structures that have been proven to work. No single one is best, so it is important to them wisely. Most of them have one thing in common; they raise the level of curiosity right from the beginning to the max!

Benefits go into the opening of your pitch because the most important thing your audience will think is; “What’s in it for me?”. The only thing your audience cares about is; “Will this work for me?”.

When pitching someone, it is easy to just start blurting out your idea and delving straight into the details. But just because you are partial to a particular design or style does not mean others will share your sensibilities.

 

 

 

Think twice

 

There are many strategies to consider in opening your pitch. Think twice, because those first minutes can make or break you.

Regardless of the strategy, the direction of what you want to say should be heavily influenced by the takeaway.

The takeaway is that one thing you want the prospect to remember after listening to your pitch. It needs to be significant to the client. And hopefully, it will differentiate you from competitors.

Develop the takeaway by asking yourself what is the one thing that could be most memorable about what you want to say. Then ask yourself why you want that point to be remembered. Keep asking that question of every answer until you are expressing what the benefit of the takeaway is for the client. Then build your opening around that.

There are lots of reasons you might not win a pitch, because of the price, personal chemistry, and your background. But, you should never lose a pitch because you presented poorly.

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

What do you think is the best way to start with a pitch?

Articles

Present the benefits in the beginning of your pitch

There are many strategies to consider in opening your pitch. Think about it twice, because those first minutes can make or break you.

Read More
Read more

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: June 21, 2001
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version:
K:
H:
T: RR
#187

Public speaking: Keeping it simple doesn’t mean you’re stupid

May 9, 2023 | Communication Skills, Presentation Skills

Public speaking: Keeping it simple doesn't mean you're stupid

Keeping it simple requires confidence and humility
Keeping It Simple Doesn't Mean You're Stupid

Simplicity in speeches and presentations

 

One should choose the simplest explanation of a phenomenon, the one that requires the fewest leaps of logic. The more complex something is, the easier we should explain it.

Overview

Of each particular thing, ask: “What is it in itself, in its own construction?”

Marcus Aurelius

Simplicity

 

One should choose the simplest explanation of a phenomenon, the one that requires the fewest leaps of logic. Or in other words; “Keep it simple, stupid!”. Good old Albert Einstein meant; “If you can’t explain it to a six-year-old, you don’t understand it yourself.”

 

Genius is the ability to reduce the complicated to the simple.

C. W. Ceran

 

Instead of buying the book with the title How can I sound sophisticated and irritate my audience, I recommend choosing simplicity. The truth is that it takes trust and humility to keep it simple. We can all benefit if we can realize that we don’t have to talk like a super genius to be considered intelligent. There is a much greater genius in our ability to keep it simple. Remember that many of the world’s most difficult problems have been solved with the simplest solutions.

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

Do you sometimes wish others would explain complex concepts in a more understandable way?

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Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

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Just read out speech manuscripts …

Just read out speech manuscripts …

Feb 21, 2022

There are good speechwriters. But what value has the best manuscript, when the performance is uncharitable? Unfortunately, in the end, the cupcakes are the highlight! An important speech deserves preparation, rehearsals, …

read more
Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Feb 21, 2022

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will bring you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in his life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

read more
20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

Sep 29, 2020

Do you want the attention of your audience? Humorously move your audience before the seat hurts. Humor relaxes. It resolves tense, stressful situations. Humor has some positive effects. Appropriate humor can be used effectively in many situations. Find out what is worth paying attention to.

read more
Read more
Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Leonardo da Vinci

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: June 21, 2008
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version:
K:
H:
T: RR
#345

Five fingers for a structured speech. Five-finger speech structure.

Feb 22, 2023 | Communication Skills, Impromptu Speaking, Presentation Design, Presentation Skills

Five fingers for a structured speech. 5-finger speech structure.

How to structure your speech
Hand

5-finger speech structure

 

A good reason for speaking; a specific message has to be communicated. In practice, however, it happens far too often that in the end, it is not clear to the listener what it was about. Whether in speeches, presentations, or conversations, listeners very often ask themselves what it was all about.

It is usually because speakers have not thoughtfully structured their speech and have not prioritized the content. How about a hint to make it more effective?

It is better to structure your speech in such a way that the listeners clearly understand what you intended to convey to them at the end. This requires appropriate preparation. However, there is not always a lot of time available for this. Then, for example, the 5-finger speech structure can be very helpful. Here you can learn how.

Overview

 

How to structure speeches with the five-finger speech format

 

If the audience does not understand the intended message at the end of a speech, it is usually because speakers have not thoughtfully structured their speech and have not prioritized the content.

It is much better to structure speeches in such a way that the audience clearly understands what you wanted to convey to them at the end. This requires appropriate preparation. However, there is not always much time available for this. In meetings, for example, spontaneity is required. It is good to know that the 5-finger speech structure can also be very helpful for impromptu speeches. Here you can learn how.

 

 

 

The five-finger speech structure step by step

 

It’s a very simple procedure. Each finger of a hand represents a step. So you always have the order of your argumentation in your hand:

 

 

1. The thumb

 

The thumb is expressing the “status quo”. Give an overview of the actual situation. Describe the general conditions and possible consequences.

What is positive about it and what opportunities are associated with it. Where are changes urgently needed and what risks are identifiable.

What happens if no changes are made. Make sure that the meaning of the following statements is understood. If the audience is not concerned, the necessary willingness to become active is lacking.

 

 

 

2. The index finger

 

The index finger points to the target. When expressing the goal, orientate yourself on the SMART model and do not confuse it with the benefit.

As a reminder of the characteristics of SMART goals, you can read the article “Rather SMART goals than unfulfilled wishes. SMART goals make life easier.“

 

 

 

3. The middle finger

 

The middle finger describes the way, the implementation, and how the goal is achieved. Which measures are necessary to achieve the desired result.

Helpful questions for you:

  • Who can make what contribution to the achievement of the goal?
  • When should the goal be reached?
  • Where will what be necessary?
  • How should the goal be achieved?
  • What resources are required, and where do they come from?

 

 

 

4. The ring finger

 

The ring finger stands for the benefits. Describe the specific benefits that the goal you are aiming for and the solution you are presenting have for the audience. Describe how the situation will change positively in the short, medium, and long term.

 

 

 

5. The little finger

 

The little finger is dedicated to the call to action.

At the end of your speech, describe the first step, which is easy to perform, and the corresponding concrete call to action. It should be neither too small nor too large. If it is too big, the project will not be set in motion. The speech ends with an appeal.

 

 

 

Conclusion

 

The five-finger speech structure is a practical and effective method of giving speech a form. It is easy to learn and memorize.

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

Did you know the five-fingered speech structure? How do you structure your speeches and presentations, how do you structure your talks?​

Beware of comments!

 

According to my purpose as a writer, I am responsible for writing and you as a reader are responsible for reading. If you now also write, and I have to read that, you will mess up everything here. Feel encouraged to do just that, I appreciate it!

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Just read out speech manuscripts …

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Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Feb 21, 2022

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will bring you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in his life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

read more
Structure for speeches and presentations: Take your audience from hell to heaven.

Structure for speeches and presentations: Take your audience from hell to heaven.

Nov 23, 2021

Do you offer a way to better conditions? It’s about promoting change? Whether products, processes, etc. Do you want to hold a public office?

I call this easy to use and very effective speech structure the “Hell-Heaven-Way”. If the conditions are untenable and there are solutions available, you can also use it outside the church to convince your audience.

read more
20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

Sep 29, 2020

Do you want the attention of your audience? Humorously move your audience before the seat hurts. Humor relaxes. It resolves tense, stressful situations. Humor has some positive effects. Appropriate humor can be used effectively in many situations. Find out what is worth paying attention to.

read more
Read more
Great Ideas Need Wings As Well As Landing Gear And...

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in group or individual training or coaching.

Published: March 6, 2015
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/redestruktur-hand-finger/
K:
H:
T: RR
#3487

Speech anxiety as an obstacle for your career

Sep 13, 2022 | Career, Coaching & Training, Presentation Skills, Stage Fright, Therapy

Speech anxiety as an obstacle for your career

Coaching for stage fright, therapy for glossophobia or speech anxiety, the excessive fear of public speaking
Speech anxiety as an obstacle for your career

Speech anxiety as an obstacle to your career

 

Stage fright is a common experience, most people know the queasy feeling as well as the sweaty fingers, and that is already unpleasant enough. But what if speech anxiety becomes a career killer?

Overview

Speech anxiety as an obstacle to your career

 

Karsten Noack – Travel companion for heroines and heroes. As a coach I help people prepare for their presentations, as a therapist, I help people with fears and anxiety disorders.

Presenting in front of an audience is in many jobs today, probably more the rule than the exception. Nevertheless, it makes many people nervous. But if the thought of having to speak in front of people regularly triggers symptoms such as sweating, excessive need to urinate, stomach pain, nausea, and even fainting, you probably suffer from speech anxiety or presentation anxiety. You are by no means alone with this. Most people feel a certain aversion to such situations, which reminds them of exam situations. While this is understandable, for some people it goes well beyond that. The fear turns into an anxiety disorder, speech anxiety, or performance anxiety.

 

 

 

Attention

 

This video is not a substitute for psychotherapy or personal counseling, nor is it a substitute for examination or diagnosis by a licensed medical professional. The information cannot and must not be used for self-diagnosis or self-medication.

 

 

 

Tips for stage fright

 

The recommendations for stage fright described in some articles are not very helpful for speech anxiety. Some of the suggestions may even make speech anxiety more intense. Caution is advised here.

 

 

 

Fears

 

Underlying speech anxiety is the fear of rejection. This phobia can be subdivided even further:

 

 

 

a. The fear of failure

 

The fear of failure, that you will embarrass yourself in front of the audience and be rejected, provides in advance a strong sense of shame.

 

 

 

b. The fear of being at the center of attention

 

The fear of being in the center of attention. Especially for shy people, the idea of being the center of attention is associated with a feeling of anxiety.

 

 

 

Speech anxiety clues

 

Clues of speech anxiety are:

  • Symptoms of a panic attack
  • Difficulties to concentrate
  • You avoid speeches and presentations as much as possible.
  • You are repeatedly unable to speak as usual
  • You hold back in meetings, although you have something to say.
  • You experience a blackout, although you are well-prepared and motivated.
  • You avoid situations where you may need to speak in front of several people.
  • Just thinking about public speaking leads to uncomfortable symptoms.

 

 

 

Speech anxiety is an anxiety disorder

 

The mentioned signs point to speech anxiety, an anxiety disorder. It is the exaggerated fear of making a fool of oneself and failing. It can have unconscious psychological causes and severely limit personal and professional development in the long term. Speech anxiety is characterized by low self-esteem and self-confidence. In extreme cases, those affected by speech anxiety withdraw from private relationships, for example, in order not to be forced to speak at a private event.

 

 

 

You are not powerless to speech anxiety

 

You are not helplessly at the mercy of speech anxiety! Don’t let your speech anxiety become an unmanageable obstacle to your career.

As you advance in your career, you will likely have to lead discussions in teams, give speeches, present your opinions in front of others, or convince others of your ideas. You can’t afford to be afraid of public speaking in this context. Do you want to give up the chance to fully develop your skills and personality, make a career, and be successful?

 

 

 

How?

 

With appropriate methods and an experienced therapist, you can get rid of public speaking anxiety. Then you will take advantage of opportunities instead of passing them over to other people just because you are afraid of speaking.

Free yourself from your speech anxiety and enjoy your public appearances in front of an audience. This may be fun, at least!

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

Beware of comments!

 

According to my purpose as a writer, I am responsible for writing and you as a reader are responsible for reading. If you now also write, and I have to read that, you will mess up everything here. Feel encouraged to do just that, I appreciate it!

P.S.

 

How do you deal with stage fright or the fear of public speaking?

Articles

Speech anxiety as an obstacle for your career

Stage fright is a common experience, most people know the queasy feeling as well as the sweaty fingers, and that is already unpleasant enough. But what if speech anxiety becomes a career killer?

Read More
Read more
We are more often frightened than hurt; and we suffer more from imagination than from reality. Seneca

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: May 4, 2016
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version:
K:
H:
T: RR
#7874

Just read out speech manuscripts …

Feb 21, 2022 | Presentation Design, Presentation Skills

Just read out speech manuscripts ...

blank

Speech manuscripts by speechwriters

 

There are good speechwriters. But, what good is the best speech script if the delivery is unmotivated? An important speech deserves preparation, rehearsals, …

Overview

 

A speech manuscript does not make a speech

 

I have an excellent speech in front of me, or more precisely, a speech manuscript. This time it is not mine. It is excellently structured, humorous, and witty. It suits the client and the goal he is pursuing with it. Likewise, it is simply good!

The speech manuscript has cost a little more. I know, because I recommended the speechwriter. However, I had also pointed out in the context that some preparation for the speech is necessary in order to internalize it and present it credibly.

However, time and financial resources were not available for this afterward. So the buyer of the speech simply unpacked it on the day of the speech and read it aloud. Well, even reading aloud has to be learned, and only a few people have mastered this fine art. So listening was no joy for the audience and the buffet afterward became a consolation prize, the cupcakes the highlight. A wasted opportunity! Too bad about this excellent draft speech. If he had printed out the text and distributed it instead of stammeringly reading it out, he would have done himself and those present a great favor. The audience does not always remember good speeches. It rarely forgets a bad speech.

 

 

A speech that is read aloud guarantees that the audience will not listen to you.

Henry Kissinger

 

 

 

Excellent speechwriters exist, but good readers are rare.

 

Exquisite speechwriters exist. They empathize so well with the commissioning speaker that the latter has the impression that their own noblest thoughts have been magically transferred to the paper. It fits, works, and is coherent – at least on paper. To make this possible takes time and money, and good speechwriters have their well-deserved price.

However, a speech manuscript delivered by a speechwriter does not completely replace the preparation on the part of the speaker, or often only the reader. Most people can only read aloud very awkwardly without preparation. Reading aloud also needs to be learned, if it is absolutely necessary.

It is certain death by boredom for the listener if a speech manuscript is read out loud monotonously.

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles  

 

P.S.

 

What experience have you made with speech manuscripts from speechwriters?

Articles

Professional impact analysis: How are you perceived by other people?

How do you actually affect people in conversations, speeches and presentations, in interviews? Professional feedback helps. What insights does an impact analysis offer you?

Read More
Just read out speech manuscripts …

Just read out speech manuscripts …

Feb 21, 2022

There are good speechwriters. But what value has the best manuscript, when the performance is uncharitable? Unfortunately, in the end, the cupcakes are the highlight! An important speech deserves preparation, rehearsals, …

read more
Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Feb 21, 2022

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will bring you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in his life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

read more
20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

Sep 29, 2020

Do you want the attention of your audience? Humorously move your audience before the seat hurts. Humor relaxes. It resolves tense, stressful situations. Humor has some positive effects. Appropriate humor can be used effectively in many situations. Find out what is worth paying attention to.

read more
Read more
Jumpstart

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: May 11, 2007
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/was-darf-die-vorbereitung-einer-praesentation-kosten/
K:
H:
T: RR
#123

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Feb 21, 2022 | Presentation Design, Presentation Skills

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

How your personal rhetorical masterpiece makes you a better speaker
How your personal rhetorical masterpiece makes you a better speaker

Your rhetorical masterpiece

 

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will guide you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

Overview

There are things where mediocrity is unbearable: poetry, music, painting and public speech.

Jean de La Bruyèr

Speaking in front of an audience as an annoying duty or pleasure?

 

It is a very simple choice in many areas:
a.) Give up your career or b.) Speak convincingly in front of an audience?

Many people more or less consciously choose option a.) and avoid public speeches. It’s a pity because that’s why they miss out on many opportunities.

Much has been written about why so many people are so afraid to speak in front of an audience. But even the best excuse doesn’t change the fact: Apart from professional ability, the most important success factor in many areas is the ability to present oneself and one’s offer convincingly. And therefore it is quite helpful to use suitable speech opportunities effectively. So; time to devote yourself to the skills for outstanding speeches and presentations in a way that makes it worthwhile.

 

 

 

Your rhetorical masterpiece as a reference experience

 

All beginnings are difficult? Many remember their first steps with public speaking. And they are not always exhilarating memories. The eternal struggles during preparation, the soft knees during walking forward, the fear of forgetting something, the many eyes directed at one, limiting thoughts, bodily fluids, and … With such memories, the next opportunity to speak is not exactly longed for. Requests for such occasions are rejected immediately, if possible.

Be inspired by Ivan Petrovich Pavlov and me, because Pavlov’s conditioning is the other way round. Instead of being restricted by negative experiences, you provide for very good experiences, which serve as motivating reference experiences in the future. Work with support on a personal masterpiece, a speech, or presentation that proves to you and the audience what you are capable of. The effort you take upon yourself will not only serve this one performance, but will positively influence all future presentations.

What is an excellent presentation?

 

Boring and mediocre presentations are common experiences. Good presentations are uncommon, but magnificent presentations are rare. That’s because, when it comes to presentations, the jump from good to great is larger than the jump from bad to good. Here are some examples of why:

 

 

 

1. Emotional impact

 

Good presentations are memorable. They contain graphics, images, and facts in such a way that they’re easy to remember. Even after a while, your audience can remember your message.

Most people would prefer to leave emotions out of their presentations. The truth is, that whenever you trigger strong emotions like surprise or awe in your audience, you’re much more likely to make an impact on your audience. Excellent presentations are therefore emotional and motivating. They bring the audience members to the point where they make a decision immediately.

 

 

 

2. Information

 

Compelling data and facts can help you illustrate your points. Good presentations contain valid information. All information is thoroughly checked, accurate and precise. Good presentations genuinely provide honest content.

Excellent presentations contain relevant information in an essence. All information that is not too absolutely relevant will be removed, including gimmicks that have no function. What’s left is the information that supports the message.

 

 

 

3. Storytelling

 

Stories draw people into a presentation and keep them rapt, so you can ensure no one tunes you out while you deliver your important ideas. Therefore, good presentations include stories. Unlike facts, stories speak to the heart, and every good presentation uses stories to illustrate points and to help people make an emotional connection to the message. A good story will capture and hold attention.

Instead of containing stories, excellent presentations are stories. These presentations guide the audience through an emotional journey that creates a reason to decide right here, right now.

 

 

 

4. Engagement

 

Keeping people’s attention for the duration of a presentation is tough. Good presentations, therefore, include some interactive elements.

Excellent presentations include specific presentation techniques to boost engagement. Some of the most reliable factors are:

  • finding common ground with listeners
  • interacting directly with your audience
  • using meaningful visual aids
  • excellent delivery skills
  • the compelling personality of the presenter

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

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Have you already made such a remarkable reference experience during a speech or presentation? How do you benefit?

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No masterpiece was ever created by a lazy artist.

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: August 3, 2016
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/ueberdurchschnittliche-reden-redekompetenz-berlin/
K:
H:
T: RR
#124

Being right at all costs. The price we pay for needing to be right.

Nov 25, 2021 | Communication Skills, Impromptu Speaking, Presentation Design, Presentation Skills

Being right at all costs. The price we pay for needing to be right.

Thoughts on the consequences of exaggerated dialectics
Hand

Being right at all costs

 

Persuading without arguments, assertiveness, winning without consideration, knockout by nasty tricks, black magic, manipulating. It is a coveted feeling to be right.​

 

Overview

Always being right

 

It is a popular feeling to be right. However, it is less a question of who is right than of who has the upper hand. For many people, it seems to be a satisfying experience to be the know-it-all, but what are the costs we aren’t counting?

To prevail at any cost seems to be a very old human desire. Even very dusty esoteric texts provide recipes on how it is possible to prevail at any cost. The approach ranges from magic elixirs with bat wings and rat tails to voodoo dolls from the mail-order business.

Persuading without arguments, assertiveness without any basis, winning without consideration, knockouts by nasty tricks, black magic, manipulating. To the bitter end, talking without having a clue…. Book stores and videos on YouTube also serve the longing for unfair assertiveness.

 

 

 

 

What’s the concern?

 

Now I could keep it with Arthur Schopenhauer. He said that if everyone unreservedly gave his position every support, then that would be the best way. After all, one often doesn’t know oneself whether one is actually right or not, and would find out that way. Up to a certain point, I even agree with him here. However, the desire to be right at all costs is usually not about finding out the best position in the end. Rather, it is about winning at any cost. So it is questionable in regard to attitude. What effect does it have on the world and on relationships when people behave in this way?

People who are really convinced of their position don’t need unfair tricks. Although, it is good to recognize them as such and to be able to neutralize them. But who believes that the result justifies the method, harms himself and the message.

 

 

 

But …

 

Someone could refer to examples from politics, where it has helped a questionable person in a considerably high position to move forward ruthlessly and without real arguments. And yes, it can be very sad.

That there are characters who try to do that is one thing. That a substantial audience goes along with it is another. The consequences, for the world, can be seen by anyone who watches the news.

 

 

 

We can decide for ourselves

 

Everyone can decide for themselves whether this is a desirable course of action. In any case, I will work to ensure that as many people as possible recognize such unfair methods and to know how to deal with them. Those who are in a position to do so will allow themselves to be disadvantaged and fight against dazzlers.

Let us rely on fair means to give arguments the chance they deserve. Those who wish to do so will find the right tips and support from me.

 

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

What thoughts come to your mind on the subject? Being right at all costs, is that worth it?​

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Great Ideas Need Wings As Well As Landing Gear And...

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in group or individual training or coaching.

Published: March 6, 2015
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/redestruktur-hand-finger/
K:
H:
T: RR
#3487

Grounding for presence and confidence in speeches and presentations

Nov 25, 2021 | Mental training, Presentation Skills, Stage Fright

Grounding for presence and confidence in speeches and presentations

Confident stand during speeches and presentations
blank

Grounding in speeches and presentations

 

Use grounding for presence and feeling confident in speeches and presentations. It is more than just an effective remedy against stage fright.

Overview

Grounding

 

Grounding is the term used to describe the secure standing of speakers. In an upright position, with their weight evenly balanced, speakers have the best stance. This also makes them feel more confident, instead of adding to stage fright.

 

 

 

Are you standing well?

 

Standing, so what? Anyone can do that, right? It sounds easier than it is for many people in front of an audience. An individually optimal stance usually requires some corrections and practice to be maintained automatically in front of larger groups. It is worth paying attention to this topic. It is easier to present in a confident posture.

 

 

 

Grounding for increased self-confidence during performances

 

One of the most important techniques you can use to improve your confidence in public speaking is grounding. It can help improve your posture. In addition, grounding does something even more effective. The inner attitude and outer posture will enhance your commanding physical presence.

Part of your energy in grounding comes from the earth, or in modern theater, from the stage floor. In the earliest forms of Western theater in Ancient Greece, actors performed outside on the natural ground. Imagine the leap of a ballet dancer upward, and you will understand where the power for all forms of personal performance comes from: from the earth beneath your feet.

When you ground yourself as a speaker or orator, you gain the same power and connection to the earth like the ancient actors. The stability and determination that you then display are immediately noticeable to your audience. Through mental training, the effect is significantly increased.

 

 

 

Step by step

 

Here are the steps to achieve an unshakable physical presence in front of an audience through grounding:

 

 

1. Stand

 

Place your feet firmly on the floor, slightly wider than hip-width apart.

 

 

 

2. Rooting

 

Imagine you are a 300-year-old oak tree with roots that reach deep and far into the earth. Like that tree, you are firm, secure, and unshakable.

 

Notes:

Compare this strong stance with the weak posture some speakers adopt by crossing their legs, leaning on one hip, or even bumping their feet together. Challenges or harsh questions from the audience might just knock these speakers out!

Try out the different postures. Compare your stable, grounded oak stance with your feet rooted at armpit width, and then compare the stance with your legs crossed at the ankles. Which posture gives you more sense of strength and purpose? Stand with your feet close together as if you were a tin soldier. You can hardly stand like that without feeling like you’re in a weak position, can you? And yet, speakers do this all the time out of nervousness and uncertainty about what to do with their bodies.

 

 

 

3. Mental training (optional)

 

In trance, the intensity can be significantly increased and anchored. This way, intense mental resources are available when they are needed. Mental training has proven to be very effective here.

 

Preparation of important speeches and presentations

 

Those who do not speak are not heard, and even those who speak up are not always successful. There are a few more steps that need to be mastered.

Do you want to convince with your message and also as a personality? Then I will help you to prepare your speeches and presentations. You determine the scope. At least, I recommend a test run with professional feedback for you and your message. Then you will know how you and your content are perceived, what you should do, and what you should leave out, where there is potential. Why do you want to get such helpful feedback so late after your real performance? Then it is too late for adjustments. Benefit from the advantage. My definition of luck: Preparation meets opportunity.

You can best estimate for yourself where the effort is worthwhile concerning the expected benefit. Here you will find the fees for my support (communication, psychology, language, structure, voice, body language, storytelling, rhetorical means, media such as PowerPoint and Co., etc.)

You are not in Berlin right now? Then choose meetings with me via telephone or video support. Whereby, there are quite good reasons for a trip to Berlin.

By the way, many people suffer from such intense stage fright in front of an audience, and therefore their performance lags behind their possibilities. Too bad, because with my help performance in a good condition is possible. Just in case...

Preparing for important speeches and presentations

A good start: Professional feedback with suggestions for improvement​

 

How persuasive are you and your messages in speeches and presentations? How good are you at the 111+ most important presentation skills? I have been analyzing speeches since 1998. After evaluating 14,375 speeches and presentations, and numerous mistakes of my own, most of which I only discovered after a delay, I can tell you exactly what works with which audience. Let me give you the feedback that will help you get ahead. You will receive essential feedback and recommendations, as well as the impulses you need to persuade your audience in concrete situations.

Are you interested? If so, here is how to get helpful feedback with recommendations for improving your speeches and presentations.

Feedback and recommendations for speakers, speeches and presentations

Just ask me personally

 

Please post any questions that may be of interest to other readers in the comments. Looking for professional support?

If you are interested in coaching, training or consulting, if you have organizational questions, or if you want to make an appointment, you can reach me best via this contact form (you can choose if you want to enter your personal data) or via e-mail (mail@karstennoack.com). You can also reach me by phone at +49(0)30 864 213 68 or by cell phone at +49(0)1577 704 53 56 from Monday to Thursday from 9:00 to 18:00. Most of the time I am in sessions, so please leave a message with your phone number in Germany. Please remember to be very specific about the reason for your call. I will get back to you as soon as possible. The privacy policy can be found here.

Transparency is important. That is why you will find answers to frequently asked questions already here, for example about me (profile), the services, the fees and getting to know me. If you like what you see, I look forward to working with you.

 

 

 

Message

 

I have read and accept the privacy policy.

Remarks:

In the address bar of your browser, the URL should begin with "https://www.karstennoack.com/...". This indicates a secure connection (SSL). Whether you enter your real name is up to you.

Related articles

 

P.S.

 

How do you stand in front of an audience? Do you use grounding for presence and confidence in speeches and presentations?

Articles

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Just read out speech manuscripts …

Just read out speech manuscripts …

Feb 21, 2022

There are good speechwriters. But what value has the best manuscript, when the performance is uncharitable? Unfortunately, in the end, the cupcakes are the highlight! An important speech deserves preparation, rehearsals, …

read more
Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Create an excellent speech or presentation as a masterpiece

Feb 21, 2022

Create an excellent speech or presentation. It will bring you forward as a presenter. Every speaker should make a brilliant speech at least once in his life. The effect goes far beyond the event because the experience becomes a mental reference. Such an experience will change you as a speaker. Create your rhetorical masterpiece. Here is how to do it.

read more
20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

20 tips for humor in speeches and presentations

Sep 29, 2020

Do you want the attention of your audience? Humorously move your audience before the seat hurts. Humor relaxes. It resolves tense, stressful situations. Humor has some positive effects. Appropriate humor can be used effectively in many situations. Find out what is worth paying attention to.

read more
Read more
Jumpstart

This article is a short excerpt from the more comprehensive course materials my clients receive in a group or individual training or coaching.

Published: May 11, 2007
Author: Karsten Noack
Revision: August 20th, 2023
Translation: ./.
German version: https://www.karstennoack.de/was-darf-die-vorbereitung-einer-praesentation-kosten/
K:
H:
T: RR
#123

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