Monthly Archive for March, 2009

On Saturdays, we survey the best public speaking articles from throughout the public speaking blogosphere.

This week’s review features topics including:

• scientific research on the importance of simplicity of your message;
• Barack Obama’s storytelling style;
• eye contact tips;
• vocal variety when reading;
• tips for conference speakers;
• pie chart advice from Dilbert; and
• 4 listener styles.

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Designing attractive slide visuals does not need to be a painful task. You don’t need to hire a design firm. You don’t need loads of expensive software.

You can design attractive visuals by following simple guidelines.  One of these simple guidelines is the Rule of Thirds — a composition technique borrowed from photography and other visual arts that works wonderfully in PowerPoint.

In this article, you will learn:

• What is the Rule of Thirds?
• How do photographers use the Rule of Thirds?
• How can you apply the Rule of Thirds to Your PowerPoint slides?

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I wish all my colleagues would read this business communications book.

Advanced Presentations by Design: Creating Communication that Drives Action offers a comprehensive approach to planning and designing presentations focused on selling ideas and persuading your audience.

This article is the latest in a series of public speaking book reviews here on Six Minutes.

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On Saturdays, we survey the best public speaking articles from throughout the public speaking blogosphere.

This week’s review features topics including:

• recently released speaking books;
• research tips for speechwriters;
• tips for inspiring speeches;
• benefits of humor in speeches;
• voice and gestures tips;
• PowerPoint advice; and
• how to use speaking to improve your business.

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