A Handful of Tips 30 –                               Presentations Five of the best tips when you are preparing to make a presentation  Many people find presentations stressful but careful preparation will boost your confidence and help you relax.            Make a list of your ‘props’ and check they are in good working order. If possible visit…

A Handful of Tips 29 –                          Thanking a Speaker   Five of the best tips when proposing a vote of thanks to a guest speaker   When a guest speaker has finished addressing a meeting, the chairperson usually asks a member of the audience to propose a vote of thanks.           A speech to…

A Handful of Tips 28 – Introducing a Speaker   Five of the best tips when introducing a speaker to an audience     The role of the introducer is to arouse the listeners’ interest so they will direct their attention to the speaker and the topic.             By mentioning specific interests you can…

A Handful of Tips 27 –                        Answering Questions   Five of the best tips on ways to handle questions after giving a talk to an audience   How often have you been to a meeting where the chairperson asks “Are there any questions?” There is often a deathly silence.   1. Ask the chairperson…

A Handful of Tips 26 –                        Coping with Hecklers   Five of the best tips on ways to cope with hecklers and a hostile audience when making a speech     Handling hecklers requires care and skill. Dealing with interjections is a high risk activity.  In most cases the audience will be on your…

A Handful of Tips 25 — Speaking Internationally     Five of the best tips when speaking to a foreign audience    When making a speech or presentation in countries where English is not the main language, thorough preparation is essential. You must be adaptable and flexible and remember a smile is a universal form…

A Handful of Tips 24 – The New Political Candidate   Five of the best tips when making a political speech    Today mass media presentations have largely replaced the old-fashioned political speech.           Electronic messages, letters to the editor and media interviews can be more effective in reaching more people than political speeches. But…

A Handful of Tips 23 – The New CEO   Five of the best tips for a new CEO   Tread softly when you begin working in a new organisation. You will be watched an d judged from the day you arrive.           You can move into the new leadership role smoothly and lay the…

A Handful of Tips  22 – Managing   Five of the best tips for managers   A good manager has a strategic vision and the ability to direct and encourage staff so they achieve the goals of the organisation.      1. Become a good role model   Lead from the front.           Maintain high…

A Handful of Tips 21 – Public Relations   Five of the best tips to get the image you want   It takes time, money and commitment to build a good image, but it can be lost with one foolish action.           To enhance your public image, present your messages attractively. Make them simple, honest…