The Pause: The Most Powerful Tool in Speaking

Karen Friedman returns with another season of Speaking of... a series devoted to divulging presentational tips and tricks that turn boring into brilliant. With these helpful tools, you'll find yourself becoming an impactful leader and effective communicator throughout all aspects of life.

Tip 1: Present the Problem

Presenting the problem before the solution not only gives people a reason to listen, but as Karen Friedman explains, it also gives you the opportunity to connect with your audience and gain rapport and trust.

Tip 2: The One Thing

Not sure how to start a new presentation? Karen Friedman discusses the "Twitter-like" approach towards a project that ensures that your message is conveyed properly.

Tip 4: Plot Your Path in Five Steps

Most speeches and presentations tend to be a bit boring. But with Karen Friedman's help, you'll be able to organize your content in five easy steps and begin "writing for the eye and speaking for the ear."

Tip 5: Mix it Up:

By using different stories and visuals, you have the power to change the energy of the room. Karen Friedman discusses how to properly incorporate unique, unusual, and interactive techniques to regulate the mood and captivate the audience.

Tip 7: The Pause

Recognized as the most powerful tool, the pause has the ability to create different effects and meanings in speeches. Karen Friedman suggests multiple uses and explains the benefits of applying this tool when speaking to your audience.

Tip 9: Ditch the Slides

Slides should be used for reinforcement, not as a script. These important tips provided by Karen Friedman will teach you how to use these visuals appropriately.

Tip 11: Vocal Variety

You use natural inflections in your voice every day, so why should your presentation sound any different? Karen Friedman reviews the five Ps that add vocal variety to your presentation.

Tip 12: How to Look Confident When Speaking

We all have moments when our nerves take over. However, you can't let your nerves stop you from looking confident, credible, and connected to your audience. In this segment, Karen Friedman looks into the different ways you can achieve strong body language throughout a presentation.