When we watch American Idol, we may talk about the competitors’ singing skills, but what we really care about is whether or not they created a little moment of magic for us. When we go to the symphony or the… Read More »The purpose of presentation skills
To continue the story. I was nearly pickpocketed on the subway in Athens recently, and I’m convinced presenters can learn something from the art of “boosting.” Pickpockets intend to harm, and speakers intend to help, but both use similar techniques.… Read More »Pickpockets are good presenters
The key difference between a live presentation and an online presentation is the challenge of holding attention. An audience member sitting in his underwear scarfing a bagel, holding a baby in his lap, and flipping through emails on a Blackberry is… Read More »Webinar vs. Seminar: Webinar Tips
I was told to watch out for pickpockets in Athens, in particular the mustard trick, how on the metro they spill mustard on you, apologize, and wipe it off with a dirty napkin while their co-conspirators take advantage of your… Read More »Pickpockets, magic, and the art of getting attention
I am on a boat going from Athens to the island of Serifos, but I’m still thinking about all those ancient Athenians who dug up the guiding principles that create the foundation of public speaking, persuasion, and the entire modern… Read More »The Greeks gave the gift of public speaking
I’ve just arrived in Greece to meet my wife, who has already been here for three weeks. She’s at a writer’s conference. While I’m here, I plan to visit the Parthenon and other temples of democracy (which technically the Parthenon… Read More »The Origin of Presentation Skills