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How to Write and Give a Speech

A Practical Guide for Anyone Who Has to Make Every Word Count

Author: Joan Detz

ONE SO, YOU'VE BEEN ASKED TO GIVE A SPEECH. NOW WHAT? A talk is a voyage. It must be charted. The speaker who starts nowhere, usually gets there. —DALE CARNEGIE It usually starts out simple: You get a phone call or an e-mail inviting you to speak at an event. Maybe your alma mater wants you to come back to campus and talk about your career. Maybe the local Chamber of Commerce just wants you to say a few words about your business at the chamber's next meeting. Maybe your favorite charitable organization wants you to stand up and share your expertise with the rest of the members. But sometimes it's not so simple. Perhaps your boss wants you to give a presentation at a nationwide convention. Perhaps you're asked to participate in a podcast or a webinar. Perhaps your professional organization invites you to speak at an international conference. What do you do? Do you automatically say "yes" and then start scrambling to pull some remarks together? Not if you're smart. Remember: A speaking invitation is exactly that—it's an invitation . You have options. You get to decide if you: • immediately accept the invitation exactly as they offered it (I don't recommend this) • accept the invitation with some minor changes (for example, ask them if they can adjust the schedule a bit to accommodate your travel requirements) • thank the conference chair for the invitation and say you'll need a few days to review your calendar before giving them an answer (this discreetly allows you to determine if the event is worth your while) • let the organization know you'd love to speak with their members, but it's not possible this month (then suggest some months when your calendar would permit) • graciously decline The point is: It's an invitation, not a subpoena. And as the invited speaker, you have some choices. The time to position yourself for speaking success is right now—when you first accept the invitation and set the terms of your talk. Why agree to speak for thirty minutes if you know you can cover the topic in fifteen? Why accept their 4 P.M. speaking slot (which will complicate your airport commute) when you can ask to speak at 2:30? ONCE YOU'VE ACCEPTED, DETERMINE WHAT YOU WANT TO SAY Begin by asking yourself, "What do I really want to say?" Then be ruthless in your answer. You have to focus your subject. You can't include everything in one speech. Let me repeat that so it sinks in: You can't include everything in one speech. In fact, if you try to include everything, your audience will probably come away with nothing. Decide what you really want to say, and don't throw in any other material. For example, if you're speaking to a community group about your corporate ethics, don't think you have to give them a complete history of your company, too. If you're speaking to an alumni group to raise funds for your university, don't throw in a section on the problems of America's high schools. If you're speaking to a local school about the need for new foreign language studies, don't go off on a tangent about the principal's salary. Get the picture? You're giving a speech, not a dissertation. You can't include every wise thought that's ever crossed your mind. Remember Voltaire's observation: "The secret of being a bore is to tell everything." WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE NOTHING TO SAY Suppose that you can't think of anything to talk about. Well, if you don't know what to say, ask yourself some basic questions about your department, your company, your industry, whatever. Think like a reporter. Dig for good material. • Who? Who got us into this mess? Who can get us out? Who is really in charge? Who would benefit from this project? Who should get the credit for our success? Who should work on our team? Who will suffer if the merger fails? • What? What does this situation mean? What actually happened? What went wrong? What is our current status? What do we want to happen? What will the future bring? What is our greatest strength? What is our biggest weakness? • Where? Where do we go from here? Where can we get help? Where should we cut our budget? Where should we invest? Where should we look for expertise? Where do we want to be in five years? Where can we expand operations? Where will the next problem come from? • When? When did things start to go wrong? When did things start to improve? When did we first get involved? When will we be ready to handle a new project? When can the company expect to see progress? When will we make money? When will we be able to increase our staff? • Why? Why did this happen? Why did we get involved? Why did we not get involved? Why did we get involved so late? Why do we let this mess continue? Why are we holding this meeting? Why should we stick with this course of action? Why should we continue to be patient? Why did they start that program? • How? How can we get out of this situation? How did we ever get into it? How can we explain our position? How can we protect ourselves? How should we proceed? How should we spend the money? How will we develop our resources? How can we keep our good reputation? How can we improve our image? How does this program really work? • What if? What if we could change the tax laws? What if we build another plant? What if the zoning regulations don't change? What if we expand into other subsidiaries? What if costs keep rising? What if we did better recruiting? These questions should lead you to some interesting ideas. Need more inspiration? Visit a Web site from another field. Check out a blog with a different perspective. Read an academic journal from another discipline. Scan a magazine you don't normally read. Look at a foreign publication. Follow an RSS feed for a week or two. Join a new LinkedIn group to discover what others think. Do something to get a fresh perspective. In short, welcome inspiration wherever you find it. The American painter Grant Wood once admitted, "All the really good ideas I ever had came to me while I was milking a cow." Mystery writer Agatha Christie confessed she got her best ideas while doing the dishes. Author Willa Cather sought inspiration by reading Biblical passages. So, learn to keep your eyes and ears open. Take your good ideas wherever you can get them. Think less about the past and more about the future. Thomas Jefferson said, "I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." Most audiences will feel the same way. Don't bore them with a five-year historical review of your industry. Instead, tell them how your industry will impact their own lives over the coming year. One good way to focus your content: Ask yourself, "If I only had sixty seconds at that lectern, what would I absolutely have to say to get my message across?" There's nothing like a sixty-second limit to focus the mind! Ask yourself, "What would interest this group?" Media mogul Ted Turner once found himself in a situation where he was scheduled to give a speech in New York, but even en route to the city, he still had not decided on his message: "I just thought, what am I going to say?" You can imagine the reaction from the dinner audience when Ted Turner announced he would give $1 billion to United Nations causes. Turner's speech didn't just make jaws drop in the audience. His speech transformed philanthropy. Your speech doesn't have to give away $1 billion. But it should be interesting. And it can't run long. I'll give Thomas Jefferson the last word: "Speeches that are measured by the hour will die with the hour." Copyright © 1984, 1992, 2002, 2014 by Joan Detz

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With more than 65,000 copies sold in two editions and recommendations from Forbes and U.S. News & World Report, this time-tested how-to guide offers sound advice on every aspect...

Book Details

With more than 65,000 copies sold in two editions and recommendations from Forbes and U.S. News & World Report, this time-tested how-to guide offers sound advice on every aspect of researching, writing, and delivering an effective speech. Filled with anecdotes, tips, examples, and practical advice, this accessible guide makes one of the most daunting tasks manageable-and even fun. Speaking coach Joan Detz covers everything from the basics to the finer points of writing and delivering a speech with persuasion, style, and humor. Topics include: - Assessing your audience - Researching your subject-and deciding what to leave out - Keeping it simple - Using imagery, quotations, repetition, and humor - Special-occasion speeches - Speaking to international audiences - Using Power Point and other visual aids - And many more The third edition has been updated and expanded to include new examples and the latest technology, as well as a section on social media, making it a must-have for anyone who writes and delivers speeches, whether novices or experienced veterans at the podium.

Imprint Publisher

St. Martin's Griffin

9781250041074

In The News

“A how-to classic.” — The Washington Post “Joan Detz has gone a long way toward taking the mystery out of writing and giving an effective speech. For this I will find it hard to forgive her.” — Governor Mario M. Cuomo “This book is a practical text for helping anyone develop the ability to speak and become more effective.” — Terrence J. McCann, executive director, Toastmasters International “There should be a law against boring and poorly delivered speeches. When there is, Joan Detz will be required reading.” — Brian S. Akre, director of executive communications, Renault-Nissan BV “If you want to boost your career, do two things: buy Joan Detz's book; then start giving great speeches.” — Jane Maas, author of Mad Women and advertising executive “It's a rare distinction for any book to remain in print continuously for three decades. This 30th anniversary edition, updated for the digital age, attests to Joan Detz's international reputation as a corporate communicator par excellence . Her guidance goes far beyond speechwriting. The practical wisdom in these pages will help you communicate your best in every business situation.” —Marian Calabro, author of The Clorox Company—100 Years, 1000 Reasons and President, CorporateHistory.net “Global executives need to give presentations. This book tells how to make those presentations effective.” — Olli-Pekka Kallasvuo, vice chairman, Telia-Sonera AB and SRV Group; former CEO, Nokia Corp “… a timeless reference manual.” — Carri Chandler, External Affairs, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. “Joan Detz, with her vast experience and expertise, is certain to provide any communicator with great practical guidance and, more importantly, an added sense of purpose in what they do for living.” — Vuk Vujnovic, Secretary General at SEECOM (South East Europe Public Sector Communication Association) “… a broad range of new examples that illustrate the art and craft of speechwriting.” — Rhea Wessel, journalist and speechwriter “[Detz's] book is excellent.” — Chris McGee, corporate speechwriter and former military public affairs specialist “Joan's experience and expertise regarding speechwriting and presentation skills have proven to be invaluable.” — Vern Schellenger, SVP of HR, American Bankers Association “You don't know what you don't know about speechwriting until you've attended one of Joan Detz's trainings or read her books. Joan's advice is brilliant, insightful, and smack-yourself-in-the-forehead "why-didn't-I-think-of-that" smart! Professional communicators around the globe turn to Joan for expert tips on producing and delivering speeches that make a difference. She has been a staple of training for the members of the National Association of Government Communicators for many years, and for good reason. Her workshops are among the most popular at our annual training events. This book is the next best thing to Joan herself, full of wonderful advice on knowing your audience, writing the speech, preparing the room, and fantastic tips for delivering the speech. I am delighted about this new anniversary edition, because my dog-eared old copy is pretty worn.” — John Verrico, President-Elect, National Association of Government Communicators

About the Creators

“A tour de force!  Everything you need to become a powerful communicator!”

Gary Genard's Public Speaking Handbook

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FREE shipping to the U.S.

Raise the bar on your performance!

Actor and speech coach Gary Genard shares his performance-based techniques and proven strategies for successful speeches and presentations, organized in sixteen fast-paced chapters for easy reference:

Whether you present weekly or occasionally, think of How to Give a Speech as your portable speech coach. Use it to “charge your battery” and hone your performance skills for greater stage presence and influence.  $15.95 with free shipping to the U.S.

Prefer an e-book? Get the PDF for just $7.95.

NEW! How to Give a Speech is now available as an audiobook. Play an audio sample at Audible.com.

How to Give a Speech can be purchased in paperback and Kindle editions at Amazon.com.

Reader Reviews

"This is an unparalleled guide to effective public speaking. It tells you not just what to do, but why you should do it, and how this will help you become a better speaker. Whether one is a student, a professor, a salesperson or a politician, Genard's book shows you how to have the desired impact on your audience. You cannot go wrong with this book!"   -- J.S., Academic Research and Teaching (Boston, MA)

"These techniques work! From speeches, to meetings to conference calls, How to Give a Speech has helped improve my communication skills and reduced my frustrations."    -- V.P., Senior Financial Analyst

"This handy little book ought to be a ready reference or carry-along on that next business trip."   -- Management Consultant

"I am constantly looking to improve my effectiveness and striving to become more dynamic. This covers every area I could imagine. I will use this book as a tool for the rest of my life."   --   J.L. (Westerville, OH)

"This is the most practical guide I've ever seen for dynamic presentations. It's all about the skills you need to become a confident and engaging speaker... fast."     --   V.P., Customer Relations

"I've practiced and used these skills and, as colleagues can testify, I have not only become a better speaker but they tell me that I am also more convincing. Perhaps that's the most important endorsement for this book... It's not only about making you a good speaker, but it's essentially about making you more powerful through speech."   --   P.D. (Washington, D.C.)

About the Author

Gary Genard, Ph.D. , is an actor, communications professor, and speech coach. Creator of   The Genard Method of performance-based public speaking training, he has spent the past fifteen years coaching executives and senior professionals in speaking for leadership. Global Gurus ranked Gary among the World's Top 30 Communication Professionals for seven consecutive years. He holds a doctorate in Theater from Tufts University and is the author of How to Give a Speech , Fearless Speaking , and a weekly blog Speak for Success!

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How to Write & Give a Speech: A Practical Guide for Anyone Who Has to Make Every Word Count (Revised, Expanded) Paperback – 4 Mar. 2014

• Assessing your audience
• Researching your subject--and deciding what to leave out
• Keeping it simple
• Using imagery, quotations, repetition, and humor
• Special-occasion speeches
• Speaking to international audiences
• Using Power Point and other visual aids
• And many more

Updated to include new examples and the latest technology, as well as a section on social media, this is a must-have for anyone who writes and delivers speeches, whether novices or experienced veterans at the podium.

• ISBN-10 9781250041074
• ISBN-13 978-1250041074
• Edition Revised, Expanded
• Publication date 4 Mar. 2014
• Language English
• Dimensions 13.97 x 1.4 x 20.96 cm
• Print length 240 pages
• See all details

Product description

"You don't know what you don't know about speechwriting until you've attended one of Joan Detz's trainings or read her books. Joan's advice is brilliant, insightful, and smack-yourself-in-the-forehead "why-didn't-I-think-of-that" smart! Professional communicators around the globe turn to Joan for expert tips on producing and delivering speeches that make a difference. She has been a staple of training for the members of the National Association of Government Communicators for many years, and for good reason. Her workshops are among the most popular at our annual training events. This book is the next best thing to Joan herself, full of wonderful advice on knowing your audience, writing the speech, preparing the room, and fantastic tips for delivering the speech. I am delighted about this new anniversary edition, because my dog-eared old copy is pretty worn." -- John Verrico, President-Elect, National Association of Government Communicators

About the Author

Product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Griffin; Revised, Expanded edition (4 Mar. 2014)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 240 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1250041074
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1250041074
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 13.97 x 1.4 x 20.96 cm
• 110,475 in Business, Finance & Law
• 151,904 in Reference (Books)
• 181,968 in Social Sciences (Books)

About the author

Do you think your speeches could be better? Does it take you too long to prepare for a public speaking event? Does even the thought of giving a presentation make you nervous?

You aren't alone. Most people wish they could feel more confident about their presentations. My books can help you do it.

The Washington Post praised HOW TO WRITE & GIVE A SPEECH as "a how-to classic".

In 2014, St. Martin's Press published the 30th anniversary edition of HOW TO WRITE & GIVE A SPEECH. "It's a rare distinction for any book to remain in print continuously for three decades." (Marian Calabro, CorporateHistory.net) The San Francisco Book Book Review praised this updated edition: "The writing is quick and to-the-point, easy to read and easy to apply."

Alba Editorial of Spain recently published the book's Spanish edition, Cómo escribir y pronunciar un discurso (translated by Elena Bernardo). http://tinyurl.com/nbarf2e

With any of my books, you can learn in just an hour or two what has taken me years to master. Lucky you!

The National Association of Government Communicators honored me with its President's Award. All awards are wonderful. But do you know what pleases me the most? When I meet someone who tells me, "I was always scared to give speeches. But your book helped me give the best presentation of my career."

Over the years, I've been pleased to work with many of the top names in international business and government - from Finland to Philadelphia, from Montenegro to Minnesota, from the UK to DC.

Improve your own skills right away by visiting my blog: www.joandetz.com/speechwritingblog

Want to learn more about #publicspeaking #speechwriting #presentations? I tweet often @JoanDetz

Visit my website at http://www.joandetz.com for more information.

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16 public speaking books you need to read

• James Haynes
• August 12, 2022

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Starting a speaking business is exhilarating and rewarding… and very stressful. Being a public speaker isn’t easy, and if you’re like most people you’ve probably looked for public speaking tips to help you become a better speaker.

These 16 public speaking books — now updated in 2024 with four new resources! — listed below can help you learn how to become a public speaker, how to improve your public speaking skills, and how to develop a talk for an audience. Books on public speaking are plentiful, but these ones have stood out, some over decades, as great guides and resources for your public speaking career.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

Use The Official Speaker Fee Calculator to tell you what you should charge for your first (or next) speaking gig — virtual or in-person! 

Want to learn how to become a better public speaker? Read on for 16 public speaking books that you need to read. (Book descriptions from Amazon)

1. The Successful Speaker by Grant Baldwin (2020)

We’d be remiss not to mention this one! Do you have a message you want to get out into the world? Have you ever dreamed of speaking for a living? Is there something you have to say, but you just aren’t sure what to do next? The Successful Speaker is a proven, easy-to-follow guide to helping you do just that.

Whether you want to speak at your next board meeting or community gathering, start making some extra money on the side, or become a full-time professional speaker, Grant Baldwin knows how to get you from here to there. Why? Because he’s done it himself and has coached over 2,000 speakers.

In The Successful Speaker, you will learn the five-step road map to start and scale a speaking business from the ground up, including

– how to hone your message and know exactly who it’s for – the preparation process to help your next speech move an audience to action – what it takes to establish yourself as an in-demand expert – practical steps to finding and booking paid speaking gigs – how to know when it’s time to grow your impact and income

In each chapter, you will get specific action steps and case studies from professional speakers to put you on the fast track to booking gigs, getting paid, and building your speaking platform.

2. How to Develop Self-Confidence and Influence People by Public Speaking by Dale Carnegie (1976)

Drawing on Dale Carnegie’s years of experience as a business trainer, this book will show you how to overcome the natural fear of public speaking , to become a successful speaker, and even learn to enjoy it.

His invaluable advice includes ways to:

-Develop poise -Gain self-confidence -Improve your memory -Make your meaning clear -Begin and end a presentation effectively

Interested in going deeper in the mechanics of how to give a talk? Here are 25 tips to help you become a better speaker.

3. Ted Talks: The Official TED Guide to Public Speaking by Chris Anderson (2017)

Since taking over leadership of TED in 2001, Chris Anderson has worked with all the TED speakers who have inspired us the most. In this book, he shares insights from such favorites as Sir Ken Robinson, Salman Khan, Monica Lewinsky, and more— everything from how to craft your talk’s content to how you can be most effective on stage.

Want to learn more about TED Talks? Check out our blog post on how to get and give a TED Talk here!

4. How to Tell a Story: The Essential Guide to Memorable Storytelling (2022)

Over the past twenty-five years, the directors of The Moth have worked with people from all walks of life—including astronauts, hairdressers, rock stars, a retired pickpocket, high school students, and Nobel Prize winners—to develop true personal stories that have moved and delighted live audiences and listeners of The Moth’s Peabody Award–winning radio hour and podcast. A leader in the modern storytelling movement, The Moth inspires thousands of people around the globe to share their stories each year.

Now, with  How to Tell a Story , The Moth will help you learn how to uncover and craft your own unique stories, like Moth storytellers Mike Birbiglia, Rosanne Cash, Hasan Minhaj, Betty Reid Soskin, John Turturro, and more.

Whether your goal is to make it to the Moth stage, deliver the perfect wedding toast, wow clients at a business dinner, give a moving eulogy , ace a job interview, be a hit at parties, change the world, or simply connect more deeply to those around you, stories are essential.

Wondering how do you tell stories that stick long after you’ve finished speaking? Have a listen to our podcast on how to tell stories that stick with Kindra Hall.

5. How to Win an Argument: An Ancient Guide to the Art of Persuasion by James May (2016)

6. speak with no fear by mike acker (2019).

It can easily seem like everyone is a gifted speaker when you watch TED talks or compare yourself to skilled co-workers giving presentations. But you don’t have to get caught up in the costly comparison trap. Instead, you can take action to improve your ability and to overcome your fear.

Through this book  you will learn 7 strategies  you can begin today. These strategies will give you a new perspective, they will prepare you, and they will give you actions to practice. As you implement these strategies, your fear will begin to fade.

THE SEVEN STRATEGIES 1. Uncover & Clean the Wound 2. Imagine the Worst 3. You Be You 4. Speak to One 5. It’s Not About You 6. Channel The Power 7. Be in the Moment

Are you struggling to develop a stage presence? Check out this article on how to overcome fear of public speaking.

7. Win Every Argument: The Art of Debating, Persuading, and Public Speaking by Mehdi Hasan (2023)

Win Every Argument shows how anyone can communicate with confidence, rise above the tit for tats on social media, and triumph in a successful and productive debate in the real world.

Arguments are everywhere―and especially given the fierce debates we’re all embroiled in today, everyone wants to win. In this riveting guide to the art of argument and rhetoric, Hasan shows you how. As a journalist, anchor, and interviewer who has clashed with politicians, generals, spy chiefs, and celebrities from across the world, Hasan reveals his tricks of the trade for the first time.

Whether you are making a presentation at work or debating current political issues with a friend, Mehdi Hasan will teach you how to sharpen your speaking skills to make the winning case.

8. How Your Story Sets You Free by Heather Box and Julian Mocine-McQueen (2019)

Everyone has a story to tell. Sharing that story can change you, your community, or even the world. But how do you start?

Discover the tools to unlock your truth and share it with the world: Storytelling coaches Heather Box and Julian Mocine-McQueen reveal how to embrace the power of personal storytelling in a series of easy steps. You’ll learn how to share your experiences and invaluable knowledge with the people who need it most, whether it be in a blog post, a motivational speech, or just a conversation with a loved one. How Your Story Sets You Free is the path to finding the spark that ignites the fire and reminds you just how much your story matters.

Personal storytelling is insanely powerful when done well. For more tips here, check out this new podcast episode with Ravi Rajani on how to create and share powerful stories!

9. How to Speak, How to Listen by Mortimer J. Adler (1983)

With over half a million copies in print of his classic How to Read a Book  in print, intellectual, philosopher, and academic Mortimer J. Adler set out to write an accompanying volume on speaking and listening, offering the impressive depth of knowledge and accessible panache that distinguished his first book.

In  How to Speak, How to Listen , Adler explains the fundamental principles of communicating through speech, with sections on such specialized presentations as the sales talk, the lecture, and question-and-answer sessions and advice on effective listening and learning by discussion.

10. Resonate: Present Visual Stories that Transform Audiences by Nancy Duarte (2010)

Presentations are meant to inform, inspire, and persuade audiences. So why then do so many audiences leave feeling like they’ve wasted their time? All too often, presentations don’t resonate with the audience and move them to transformative action.

Nancy Duarte created the slides in Al Gore’s Oscar winning  An Inconvenient Truth. In this book, she unpacks how to apply visual media to your talk. Her book Resonate helps you make a strong connection with your audience and lead them to purposeful action. The author’s approach is simple: building a presentation today is a bit like writing a documentary. Using this approach, you’ll convey your content with passion, persuasion, and impact.

11. The Public Speaking Bible: A Survival Guide for Standing on Stage by Marcus Alexander (2020)

The Public Speaking Bible; a Survival Guide for Standing on Stage is a depository of essential speaker’s knowledge designed to further your career whether you aim to be a full time speaker, undertake management roles or simply wish to improve your voice and stage presence. All the tips within come via the author and guest performers, adding up to a combined three hundred years of essential speakers’ know-how.

Within this bible:

Technical advice: how to effortlessly project your voice, audience manipulation, crowd control, body language, hand gestures and more.

Additionally: a frank approach for overcoming stage fright, a foolproof recipe for memorising a speech, how to overcome a sore throat and using the physics of sound to your advantage.

Business advice: how to price your speech, approaching agencies, talking overseas, understanding unique selling points, the most complete list of global public speakers’ agencies and more.

12. How To Talk To Anybody :14 Speaking Techniques To Instantly Connect With Anyone by Ryan Harrison (2022)

How many opportunities, relationships, and experiences have you missed out on because you didn’t know how to talk to people with confidence and skill?

Well, from now on, you will know exactly what to say and how to say it in a way that makes people open their eyes with surprise and delight as you talk. You’ll capture the attention of everyone you engage with. Your words will have impact and influence, and your opinion will make a difference.

The author – Ryan Harrison – has spent 30 years studying linguistics and communication and has distilled his knowledge into these 3 books.

13. Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun (2009)

In this hilarious and highly practical book, author and professional speaker Scott Berkun reveals the techniques behind what great communicators do, and shows how anyone can learn to use them well. For managers and teachers — and anyone else who talks and expects someone to listen —  Confessions of a Public Speaker  provides an insider’s perspective on how to effectively present ideas to anyone. It’s a unique, entertaining, and instructional romp through the embarrassments and triumphs Scott has experienced over 15 years of speaking to crowds of all sizes.

With lively lessons and surprising confessions, you’ll get new insights into the art of persuasion — as well as teaching, learning, and performance — directly from a master of the trade.

Highlights include:

• Berkun’s hard-won and simple philosophy , culled from years of lectures, teaching courses, and hours of appearances on NPR, MSNBC, and CNBC
• Practical advice , including how to work a tough room, the science of not boring people, how to survive the attack of the butterflies, and what to do when things go wrong
• The inside scoop  on who earns $30,000 for a one-hour lecture and why
• The worst — and funniest — disaster stories  you’ve ever heard (plus countermoves you can use)

Filled with humorous and illuminating stories of thrilling performances and real-life disasters,  Confessions of a Public Speaker is inspirational, devastatingly honest, and a blast to read.

14. Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo (2015)

Public speaking coach and bestselling author Carmine Gallo has broken down hundreds of TED talks and interviewed the most popular TED presenters to reveal the nine secrets of all successful TED presentations. Gallo’s step-by-step method makes it possible for anyone to deliver a presentation that is engaging, persuasive, and memorable.

Many people have a fear of public speaking or are insecure about their ability to give a TED-worthy presentation. Carmine Gallo’s top 10  Wall Street Journal  Bestseller  Talk Like TED will give them the tools to communicate the ideas that matter most to them, the skill to win over hearts and minds, and the confidence to deliver the talk of their lives.

15. Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln by James Hume (2002)

Ever wish you could captivate your boardroom with the opening line of your presentation, like Winston Churchill in his most memorable speeches? Or want to command attention by looming larger than life before your audience, much like Abraham Lincoln when, standing erect and wearing a top hat, he towered over seven feet? Now, you can master presentation skills, wow your audience, and shoot up the corporate ladder by unlocking the secrets of history’s greatest speakers.

Author, historian, and world-renowned speaker James C. Humes—who wrote speeches for five American presidents—shows you how great leaders through the ages used simple yet incredibly effective tricks to speak, persuade, and win throngs of fans and followers. Inside, you’ll discover how Napoleon Bonaparte mastered the use of the pregnant pause to grab attention, how Lady Margaret Thatcher punctuated her most serious speeches with the use of subtle props, how Ronald Reagan could win even the most hostile crowd with carefully timed wit, and much, much more.

16. Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results by Rob Biesenbach (2018)

Unleash the Power of Storytelling offers a practical roadmap to crafting and delivering more powerful, persuasive stories that you can use to get more of what you want out of your career and your life.

Taking a fun, no-nonsense approach, Unleash the Power of Storytelling will teach you:

•The hard science behind why stories work •A simple three-part structure for telling any story •The role of emotion in fueling great stories •How to cut the clutter and focus your story on the essentials •How and where to find great stories •Tips for delivering your stories in the most effective way possible

Want to learn how to create your own underdog Rocky story? Have a listen to our podcast with Clint Pulver, who used his story to build powerful relationships with speakers he admires and respects, and how he created his own board of directors as a result.

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Download our free 26-page guide and get the 14 exact steps you can follow to book a paid speaking gig right now!

Are 16 books not enough for you? Check out our podcast archive for more tips and lessons on public speaking. Still want more? Satiate your desire to learn more about public speaking by checking out The Speaker Lab blog here.  Happy reading!

• Last Updated: March 6, 2024

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How to Give a Speech

Easy-to-learn skills for successful presentations, speeches, pitches, lectures, and more, publisher description.

Your ability to speak confidently and persuasively is your most important asset. It helps you connect with people, share the ideas you’re most passionate about, and realize your dreams. This updated guide provides easy-to-learn skills that will take your speeches and presentations to the next level, so you enjoy public speaking more and make everything you say more memorable. In this expanded edition of How to Give a Speech, actor and speech coach Gary Genard introduces you to The Genard Method of performance-based public speaking. Individuals and business teams around the world have used these techniques to build their confidence and skill and to speak with power and professionalism. You’ll discover the step-by-step method for reducing anxiety, organizing your material, improving your focus, engaging any audience, and telling your story with humor, style, and substance. You’ll learn how to: Calm your nerves and boost your confidence Establish rapport with listeners Develop a powerful message Use storytelling, evidence, and visual aids Create compelling openings and closings Speak simply and powerfully Use body language and improved vocal skills Deal with resistance and think on your feet Master the art of stage presence This second edition of Dr. Genard’s classic guide includes new chapters on body language, presentation technology, acting techniques for public speaking, and presenting in the 21st century. More than ever, it’s the handbook of great speaking for novices, seasoned pros, and everyone in between.

Full Transcript of Michelle Obama’s Speech at the Democratic Convention

The former first lady spoke for just over 20 minutes and told the convention that “hope is making a comeback.”

• Share full article

By The New York Times

• Aug. 21, 2024

OK. We got a big night ahead. Thank you all so much. Thank you so much. OK. There you go.

Hello, Chicago! Yeah. All right. Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn’t it? You know, we’re feeling it here in this arena, but it’s spreading across this country we love. A familiar feeling that has been buried too deep for far too long. You know what I’m talking about. It’s the contagious power of hope.

The anticipation, the energy, the exhilaration of once again being on the cusp of a brighter day. The chance to vanquish the demons of fear, division and hate that have consumed us and continue pursuing the unfinished promise of this great nation, the dream that our parents and grandparents fought and died and sacrificed for.

America, hope is making a comeback.

Yeah. But, to be honest, I am realizing that, until recently, I have mourned the dimming of that hope. And maybe you’ve experienced the same feelings, that deep pit in my stomach, a palpable sense of dread about the future.

And for me, that mourning has also been mixed with my own personal grief. The last time I was here in my hometown was to memorialize my mother — the woman who showed me the meaning of hard work and humility and decency, the woman who set my moral compass high and showed me the power of my own voice.

Folks, I still feel her loss so profoundly. I wasn’t even sure if I’d be steady enough to stand before you tonight, but my heart compelled me to be here because of the sense of duty that I feel to honor her memory. And to remind us all not to squander the sacrifices our elders made to give us a better future.

You see, my mom, in her steady, quiet way, lived out that striving sense of hope every single day of her life. She believed that all children, all — all people have value. That anyone can succeed if given the opportunity. She and my father did not aspire to be wealthy. In fact, they were suspicious of folks who took more than they needed. They understood that it wasn’t enough for their kids to thrive if everyone else around us was drowning.

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On Speaking Well: How to Give a Speech With Style, Substance, and Clarity Paperback – Bargain Price, February 17, 1999

• Reading for inspiration--how to use the excellence of others

Complete with lessons, tips and memorable examples, On Speaking Well shows us how to create forceful, persuasive, relevant speeches that will resonate with our audiences. Engaging, informative, and always entertaining, this is undoubtedly the authoritative how-to guide for anyone writing or giving a speech

• Print length 224 pages
• Language English
• Publisher William Morrow Paperbacks
• Publication date February 17, 1999
• Dimensions 5.31 x 0.5 x 8 inches
• See all details

Editorial Reviews

About the author.

Peggy Noonan is the best-selling author of seven books on American politics, history, and culture. Her essays have appeared in Time , Newsweek , the Washington Post , the New York Times , and other publications. She lives in New York City.

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B01LTHXLF8
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ William Morrow Paperbacks (February 17, 1999)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 224 pages
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 6.4 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5.31 x 0.5 x 8 inches
• #1,314 in Public Speaking Reference
• #6,125 in Writing Skill Reference (Books)
• #7,015 in Deals in Books

About the author

Peggy noonan.

Peggy Noonan is the widely admired and award winning columnist for the Wall Street Journal, where her column, Declarations, has run since 2000. She is also a contributor to CBS News, appearing frequently on Face the Nation. Her work has been lauded as "passionate, patriotic and persuasive" and as "must-reading for the understanding of American politics." In 2011 she was honored as Columnist of the Year by The Week, which said of her work, "In an era of rigid polarization, she embraces the nearly lost art of open-mindedness." Her prose, said the magazine, "is subtle and striking, and the clarity of her observations can be devastating." In 2010 Noonan received the Tex McCrary Journalism Award given by the Medal of Honor Society, which is composed of living recipients of the Medal of Honor. She has called this the highest honor of her career. Noonan is the author of nine books on American politics and culture, among them her early political classic, WHAT I SAW AT THE REVOLUTION and her bestselling biography of Ronald Reagan, WHEN CHARACTER WAS KING. She was a special assistant and speechwriter to President Ronald Reagan. She is a member of the board of trustees of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Library. She is the author most recently of THE TIME OF OUR LIVES, a collection of columns and essays published by Twelve. Peggy Noonan was born in Brooklyn, New York, received her BA from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and lives in New York City.

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Customers find the writing witty, concise, and easy to follow. They also appreciate the humorous anecdotes and personal flair. Readers say the content is right on and helpful. However, some feel the subject matter is political antics and biases, which lack clarity and substance.

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Customers find the material in the book right on, helpful, and useful. They also appreciate the comparisons and stories about the leaders.

"...This book consists of hundreds of blinding insights . 10 of them are: (1). The reality you are imagining is worse than the reality that will be; (2)...." Read more

"...This valuable little book is chock full of tidbits that will help everyone new to public speaking as well as reminding veteran speakers and..." Read more

"...is exceptionally easy to follow and useful . So I was all in on this book for the first quarter of it or so...." Read more

"...Separate the politics from the pedagogy. This is a good book , and an interesting read...." Read more

Customers find the writing and content witty, concise, and useful. They say it improves writing skills, boosts confidence, and makes anyone a better communicator. Readers also appreciate the humorous anecdotes and personal flair.

"...Digest this book and your public speaking skills will improve dramatically ." Read more

"...(which also actually translates remarkably well for creative writing in general)..." Read more

"Peggy Noonan provides a witty and concise look at speaking , writing speeches and understanding the dynamics of various types of presentation - such..." Read more

"It met expectations but didn't exceed them. She simplifies it so well I was left looking for a little more as far as tips and tricks of the trade...." Read more

Customers find the historical context of the book helpful with helpful tips and historical anecdotes.

"Excellent practical advice as well as interesting historical stories of great speakers " Read more

"Chock full of helpful tips and historic anecdotes ...." Read more

"thoughtful written with fun historical context ..." Read more

Customers find the subject matter of the book to be very subjective and antithetical to clarity and substance.

"...Her strong political beliefs shine through vividly ...." Read more

"...is not a book to teach one how to speak well; it is a book on political antics and biases ." Read more

"This book is simply about politics and its very subjective. I would not recommend reading this book. Don't waste your time" Read more

"The advice is pretty routine, the examples are ok but too elaborated ......" Read more

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Opening Address by Minister for Digital Development and Information Mrs Josephine Teo at kidsREAD 20th Anniversary on 31 August 2024

President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Ms Jane Ittogi, Chairman, NLB Mr Lee Seow Hiang, Chief Executive Officer, NLB Mr Ng Cher Pong, Colleagues, Friends, Parents and Children 1.  Good afternoon and thank you all for being here.

2.  I wasn’t supposed to be giving you this speech.

3.  But a certain Head of State, a very well-respected and well-loved Head of State has delegated this task to me, so please bear with me.

4.  One of my earliest memories is in fact about how I had lost a book. I had won a prize at a storytelling competition. I was so excited unwrapping this prize, that when I saw it, I flung it into the air, and it fell into a crack behind a wardrobe. Because the wardrobe was too heavy, we could not move it. That book stayed behind the wardrobe for a few years, until we eventually moved house, and I was able to retrieve it. I remember the title of that book. It was the “Magic Porridge Pot”.

5.  I think it was because of the loss of that book, that motivated me to volunteer to be the class librarian at Primary 3. That was the first job I ever had in my life. It was the best job ever, because every time when the books were delivered to the school, the class librarian had first dibs, and that was me.

6.  Post-independence, many children like me were fortunate to have this opportunity of early exposure to books. And this helped us to learn so much more about the world than we would otherwise would have been able to, and it brought about lifelong benefits.

7.  But not all children are as fortunate. That is the reason why 20 years ago, a team in NLB decided that they needed to find a way to give every child a chance to learn about books, and to grow a love for books. In its first year, as you saw in the video, it was very modest. They managed to reach around over 600 kids. But over two decades, so many more have benefitted from kidsREAD; nearly 80,000 children benefitted. Beyond the numbers, there are really numerous stories of how the children have been learning to read, learning to learn, learning to dream. In the process, we have helped the children to develop and grow a love of reading, very likely a love of life.

8.  In fact, a longitudinal study was published last year in the journal of Psychological Medicine that reported on a discovery of a very important correlation. It turns out that reading for pleasure for at least 12 hours a week, is associated with positive change in the brain structure of children. This biological change, in turn, produces measurable differences in cognitive performance and mental health well into the teenage years of the individuals, as compared to those who did not develop this reading habit.

9.  When we see a finding like this, it must make all of us sit up. Whether as parents who all love our children, or as citizens who care about the well-being of our fellow citizens, it’s not a complicated policy decision that requires great costs or tradeoffs to promote a simple act of reading. Yet, it takes persistent hard work to get it done.

10.  As for kidsREAD, back then, we did not need such evidence to spur us into doing what is right. In fact, the NLB team that got it started were just driven by the conviction that reading matters. Everyone should have a chance to be a reader.

11.  Some may ask, “You have done this programme for 20 years, what have you got to show for it?” There is a useful proxy that might give us the answer that you are looking for. And it is something that President would be familiar with: PIRLS - Progress in International Reading Literacy Study. The most recent study found that our Primary 4 children perform top of the class globally. But that’s not the best part. The best part is that even at our lowest end, our readers are amongst the best-scorers across all education systems. In other words, our so-called weaker readers in Singapore, are in fact very strong readers in the world. And even through Covid, our readers did not fall back on their reading abilities.

12.  I’m pretty certain that kidsREAD, along with many other programmes of this nature, have made a positive contribution.

13.  And we have many people to thank for their contributions - the parents who send their children, the community partners that provide the 200 or so premises for the programme, the staff who have put their heart and soul to keep the programme going over the years.

14.  Most of all, I’d like to thank the volunteers without whom kidsREAD cannot operate.

15.  One such volunteer who is here with us today is Karen Took from Nee Soon East. Karen has been with the programme right from the start, from 20 years ago. Like many other volunteers, Karen has her own work and family. Yet, she has consistently found time and commitment to provide the children enrolled in kidsREAD with additional support, to cultivate a love for reading.

16.  Over the years, we have been so fortunate to have had more than 29,000 volunteers in kidsREAD. If you do the math, it’s quite clear what a labour of love this has been – nearly four volunteers needed for every 10 children in the programme. That is a labour of love worth celebrating.

17.  As you heard in the video, it is not all that we are doing. The programme is being expanded further.

18.  Through all these years of operating kidsREAD, we have observed that despite best efforts, the family circumstances of some have made it difficult for the parents to bring the children to the premises where the programme is being conducted.

19.  As such, we’re happy to introduce kidsREAD@Home which will help children in such circumstances, to also participate in this programme – to grow a love for books, to grow a love for reading.

20.  Keep in mind that this means that the job of our volunteers has become even more demanding, and I salute them in advance. Thank you so much, for being willing to help us in this outreach. Because we believe that together, we can make a meaningful difference to the children and their families, which is why we must persist despite what we know to be of tremendous challenge.

21.  It’s also very important in keeping with the spirit of Forward SG, where as a society, we continuously look out for each other, support each other in the things that matter most, in the things that could make the biggest difference in our lives.

22.  Once again, thank you to all our partners and volunteers.

23.  And also, our deepest appreciation to President and Ms Ittogi for making time to be with us this afternoon.