Envisioning Possibilities
Health
Fear of giving a speech can affect your health.
Picture this: you’re standing in front of a sea of expectant faces, your palms sweating, knees knocking, and your mind going blank faster than a dropped call. Yes, it’s the dreaded speech-giving moment, where even the most eloquent among us can become a stumbling mess.
As a long-time toastmaster, I have found a few helpful hints to improve speaker health.
A grand opening line is a good start. The celebrated speaker, Patricia Fripp, suggests a few opening lines for your next business presentation.
The purpose of this meeting is to . . .
Thank you for the opportunity to . . .
You will remember at our last meeting . . .
Thank you for your support with . . .
We have an amazing opportunity to . . .
There will never be a more perfect time to . .
Congratulations . . .
Last but not least – I need to offer a plug for Toastmasters.
Sign on to Toastmasters.org and “find a club”. A few have remained online after COVID-19. Even though you don’t get that in-person experience, you will get a speaking experience.
My personal experience in Toastmasters launched a new career for me in 2000. After being a school teacher, a presenter for my company, and a business owner required to give presentations to get the work, I didn’t know what I was missing. I could have been so much more. In addition, I’ve won speech contests and gained new clients.
If you would like to join me at Lehigh Valley Toastmasters for a new experience, we meet on the 2nd and 4th Wed. from 7-9. www.LVToastmasters.org
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Why Every Designer Should Practice Their Speech
In design, presentation is persuasion. When you practice speaking as much as sketching, you build trust, authority, and excitement around your ideas. A polished pitch can make the difference between a “maybe” and a “let’s do it.” Remember your voice is part of your professional toolkit. Use it well, and let it sell your vision as powerfully as your designs do.
NETWORKING …. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER
Networking is more about follow-up than first impressions.
Sound as Good as You Look
Trade shows can showcase your talent and brand but shouldn’t cost you your voice.
Think Fast, Speak Smart
When someone tosses a tough question your way, your brain might go blank before your mouth opens. That’s normal—but it’s not permanent. The trick is to pause with purpose, not panic. The repeat-pause-answer method lets you buy time...
Social Savvy
Elegant events aren’t just about the wine and the lighting they’re where lasting professional connections begin. With confidence, curiosity, and a graceful goodbye, you can turn any gala or awards night into an opportunity for genuine rapport.
Sweat Palms
Swap sweaty palms for confident handshakes.
Tell Me More
A few months ago, I watched a young designer at a networking event nervously circle the coffee station. She rehearsed “So, what do you do?” at least four times before finally approaching a woman from a major firm. Five minutes later, they were laughing...
The Conversation
Because small talk isn’t small at all. It’s where big things begin.
Power of Story Telling
The Power of Storytelling in Your Presentations Make the client the hero.Your presentation isn’t just about showcasing your design genius it’s about inviting the client into their own success story. When they can see themselves living in the space you’re describing,...