Not just any story – what makes a really really great story? Here are the critical elements:
1. Use material that speaks to you. Almost any area of your life can be a source for a story – a trip, an adventure, a family gathering, a success, a failure, etc.The important thing is that it should ignite emotion within. You have to “feel” the story in order to tell it well.
2. Set the scene.Describe the details in three dimensions: help your audience to see the story as though it’s happening right now, help them to experience the story through descriptive words, …

I am very excited today, because I have just finished an enormous project. I’ve just shipped (well-emailed) my popular Sales Presentations Training Camp to Ireland. Soon it will become available to the other Certified Instructors in the US and around the World. I really enjoyed plunging into the depths of sales and researching the question,”why do people buy?”.
There is one secret that pops out – people buy for their reasons, not yours. So the key is to ask the #1 question: “What are your top-two priorities for choosing this product/service?” Then, in an interactive discussion, address those top-two priorities. …

I often find that my trainees have their voices in a cage, and they need lots of help to put emotion and energy into the vocal part of their presentations. Here are three tips that will help:
1. Practice going from a low level of energy to a high level. Think of something that you do not like (maybe you don’t like cats), and practice speaking about that topic in a very flat, soft, uninteresting voice. Then think of something that you are wild about (maybe a certain sports car). Speak about it in a very loud, energetic voice with lots …

My husband, Scott, and I recently returned from a fabulous vacation in Italy. Every time we return from a trip we play the “best” game: best gelato…. best hotel… best dinner…. best day….etc. The ultimate “best” this year was not a place or a restaurant; it was Lorenzo. Lorenzo was our wonderful B&B owner who was so special that we voted him the “very best” award from our three-week adventure. He personally met us on the streets of Venice to guide us through the maze of tiny walkways to our temporary home. He went way beyond just recommending great places …

On a recent American Idol show Beyonce, the super mega-star gave the singing contestants advice. Surprisingly she described herself as a somewhat shy person who has to really work at being confident on stage. She explained that what she does is some positive self-talk, “I’m worth it, I deserve to be here, I’m a diva.” This works great for speakers and presenters too. Next time you feel unworthy of being up in front of a group, have a serious talk with yourself – convince yourself that you deserve to be there & that you know more about your topic than …