Communicating Effectively Through Speech On-Site Seminar

A seminar for people whose work requires
them to speak to small or large groups,
at meetings, by phone, or one-to-one

It takes the right combination of elements to make a program successful. This one begins with . . .

A system

We build an effective presentation byPresentation seminar blending, through a "Quadrangle of Speech," the Materials, Production, Function, and Situations essential for good planning and delivery.

Then we shape content and presentation by developing Language Selection and Sequence, Vocal Qualities, Appearance, Facial Expression, and Body Language.

What happens during the seminar is practical and job-related

An Interactive method of feedback

In our two-day program, participants deliver four planned talks covering a range of actual work experience. Every member of the group plays a role in the feedback process, and the group leader brings constructive feedback into focus through sharp observation, comment and demonstration.

It's not just the method that makes this kind of feedback and reinforcement successful, but also the quality of analysis and the depth of experience behind the group leader's comments and direction.

A Video-taped comparison of performance for each participant

Entry-level and course completion tapes measure the degree of improvement, strengthen confidence, and secure high-level future performance. "Speaking Profiles" taken by each participant at the beginning and end of the course make actual growth evident.

Here's some of what we discuss and practice

Physical and mental exercises that build confidence
"Information Satellites" that help the speaker build on a central theme, organize and shape information
Audience profiling that builds confidence and enables the speaker to target the message toward audience and objectives
Exercises that expand the selection of language so that it is expressive, varied, precise, and sensitive to others' attitudes
Development of vocal qualities to command and retain audience interest, create emphasis, and build character into the talk
The Situations of Speech, noting the requirements for effectiveness in each - one-to-one, the telephone, group presentation, conducting and participating in meetings
Proposals and Persuasion, recognizing the interdependence of content, voice, appearance, and expression
Planning and conducting successful meetings, a systematic plan for assurance that each meeting meets an objective, leaders maintain control, and participants make appropriate contributions
Handling of Visual Aids - overheads, slides, flip charts, hand outs, samples to build, but not distract from, strong presentation
What can a participant expect to gain? The ability to:

Focus on objectives
Outline mentally
Use vocal qualities to best advantage
Be natural and confident
Exercise command of language
Demonstrate self-assurance, professionalism, and authority
Long-term feedback

After our program is over, the course continues. Within the month following the course, participants send us two audio or videotapes of actual job-related presentations (a phone call, a meeting presentation, or a one-on-one conversation). In return, we respond with detailed personal feedback, ensuring that the skills students learn stick with them.

Thousands of revealing impressions can be summarized in these unsolicited remarks

"I wanted you to know that your coaching has already been a tremendous help to me. Your text, video tape, and your criticism method was an outstanding learning experience."
Alexander L. Berlin, Senior Account Manager, Hoechst-Celanese

"I thought that the instructor was excellent, offered good criticism and good ideas on how to improve."
Brian Michlich, Auditor, Summit Bancorp

"...Obvious extensive experience (the instructor) but not pedantic. Tough, but I really feel I've accomplish something . . . good teacher, excellent example . . . "
Thasia Woodworth, Hoffmann-LaRoche