I was recently coaching a highly skilled actor who has a habit of tensing in their throat when voicing, especially emotionally-laden lines. If you have ever performed, or watched a performance with empathy, you will understand that this is a very common and natural challenge. But have you noticed how common it is in daily life as well?
continue readingHow to stop gasping for air when you talk
In the past week this topic has come up in two different contexts for clients. One example is what you might expect, a professional speaker who noticed that he could hear his breaths during a TED talk. The other, perhaps less obvious, is someone who has been doing a lot of job interviews and noticed that she can hear herself gasp for air when answering questions.
Different settings, same problem: tension causing audible inhales.
continue readingWant to shine in job interviews? Here you go.
You know your stuff. You’re ready for the next step in your professional life. Now you just need to (ominous music plays) nail the interview.
On paper it’s easy, you’re just answering questions that you know the answer to. But in reality we all know there’s more to it. Some people freeze up from unexpected nerves. Others think they do great interviews but never get a followup call. And some folks are just…fine. These people may not be showing themselves off to the best advantage, but you can!
continue readingWhy your virtual presentations are worse than in-person
If I had a nickel for every person who has told me how much harder it is to present well over Zoom (or Teams or Meet or whatever platform), I could actually retire at some point.
There are many reasons for a remote presentation to be more difficult in terms of connecting with the group, reading the room, and assessing whether listeners are “with” you. Today we focus on the role the listener plays in your success, and why it can be easier to present well in person.
continue readingStressed? Try humming for health
Yep, simply humming can affect your body and mood. I’m going to discuss a little of the data, and then give you a simple way to play with it on your own.
None of this is surprising, really, when we consider the widespread use of sound waves in Western medicine. Ultrasound is a vital non-invasive diagnostic tool, and sound waves are frequently used to treat tumors, kidney stones, broken bones, blood clots, and so much more.
continue readingReading a speech? Here’s one vital tip
While there are many elements to giving a good speech, and several other posts on this site about those elements, today we focus on just one.
How do you write out (and visually format) a speech to make it effortless to read and sound natural?
continue reading