Writing a pitch can be difficult, but something my good friend Derrick Wolbert passed on to me was to make them lean back in their chairs. What he meant was, you want them to be in awe. This visual stuck with me and I believe it sets a great goal for anyone preparing to give a pitch.

I’m a huge fan of icebreakers. They get the audience talking or moving. They also help the group get to know each other a little bit. Now, I’ve heard from some people, “I hate icebreakers!” If that’s the case, it’s because you’ve only been shown the wrong ones - the icebreakers that are tiresome or not very well-thought out. I’m here to correct that!

If “Improve My Presentations” or “Improve My Speaking Skills” was on your list of new year’s resolutions (or on your performance review), I can help! Check out this article for some quick, easy-to-do tips. Oh yeah - and I’m here if you want some in-person help, too! Happy New Year, y’all.

It’s been a great year. Like many of my colleagues, I’m reflecting on the highlights and the learnings of the past year. Thank you for being a reader! I’m grateful for your time and attention. From 3 takeaways from clients and classes to new avenues I discovered, I hope you find the highlights inspiring, and the takeaways helpful.

Before reaching out to a professional workshop company for a public speaking skills class or a presentation skills workshop, gather your data so your calls can be productie. In other words, prepare. Sometimes, would-be clients call me when don’t know what they want. Use these 6 questions to focus your training needs and make your next intro call productive.

Workshops and coaching are available in Charlotte, Chicago, and nationwide! I’m pleased to announce that effective January 5, 2022, our public speaking, presentation skills, and media coaching will be available in a second home base: Charlotte, NC. Workshops and coaching are always available online and in Chicago, too!