The Solution to "Corpsman"

Last week, President Obama made an unforced error, mispronouncing a word three times in a public speech. Public speakers of all types risk this sort of thing by not practicing.




Practice, which I define as simulating the real thing, makes performance second-nature. Have a colleague watch you give your next presentation. Hire a coach to walk you through your speech. Do anything that lets you get better before you are on the stage. Don't go into any public appearance without having run through your material. Practice may never 'make perfect,' but it always helps people own their moment.

A New Eye Contact Thought

A few weeks ago, I spent most of a lazy Saturday afternoon watching episodes of Embedded, a music show. In the episode featuring Ben Harper, I found a cool rendition of eye contact. In his interviews, Harper often talked while looking at the ground. He looked down until he got to his main point, and then raised his intense stare to the interviewer.



Harper's use of eye contact is effective. When he's looking down, you wonder what he'll say and what he's thinking about. Then when he looks up, you are ready for the inspirational genius to come forth.

Eye contact is powerful. Use it purposefully for effective speaking.

My Paradigm for Communication

I think of speech content like this:

Crafting a memorable speech is finding the sweet spot where your words are funny and sincere.

Movie Review: Shrink

I like: Kevin Spacey.
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I like: short reviews.
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Shrink was like Crash, except I cared.

Public Speaking is Terrifying

Someone sent this card in to Post Secret. Frank published it on Sunday:

Challenging such a disarming fear is tough. As a coach, when I encounter someone that afraid, I think it can be a good sign. Some simple techniques and practice can overcome fear of speaking itself. But much more importantly, people grow when they understand what causes such fear.

Our parents, early experiences, and other huge forces can be negatively powerful; unlocking those forces and channeling them positively can be transformative. That's why I coach people in public speaking.