Numbers add credibility to a speech, especially in a persuasive speech that uses logic to impress upon the audience. Say you are a salesman selling anti-cancer pills (are they even such medicine around??), one of the most used tactic is to state the current percentage of Singaporeans that are prone to cancer. Or if you are presenting to the board of directors, you will embellish your slides with revenue figures, return on investment percentages and company turnover numbers, especially if your company is doing well. Even speakers use numbers to reinforce their points. I remember a couple of days ago, Joni dished out a statistical figure that was appalling but underscored her point: Couples in Singapore are NOT having enough sex. In fact, based on her numbers, couples of having sex ONLY twice a week. Now, that is something!

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In JJ’s September article, The Metaphysics of Public Speaking he fervently stressed that speakers should always “make a point”. The point that he is talking about is your message, the source of your speech! Without a message, there is really no reason why you should give a speech or a presentation. It is a waste of your time and the audience time. On the other hand, when you are clear about your message, not only will your preparation be more focused, you have a higher chance of impacting your audience the way you want it.

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By Darren LaCroix, 2001 World Champion Speaker

I understand many of you reading this are not Toastmasters, but I believe this example applies to everyone who gives presentations. Some of you have heard me speak about this, but I checked my archives and I do not think I have written about it … (and I wanted to touch on some things I did not have time to speak about).

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Hello peeps! I want to share with you an article which I found some time back. Not only did the author accurately pointed out some of our common fears, he has also artfully suggested antidotes to help alleviate the fear. In my opinion, they are practical and definitely worth a try. Bring his ideas for a test run and see if it works for you! Lastly, a quote for you to ponder over.

Miracles start to happen when you give as much energy to your dreams as you do to your fears. (Richard Wilkins)

1. FEAR OF THE UNKNOWN

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Last Saturday, I represented NUS Toastmasters Club to compete in Area Z1 Toastmasters Evaluation Contest. The objective of the contest is to train speakers in becoming competent in their analysis of fellow Toastmasters’ speeches. The evaluation contest is 2 to 3 mins in length. A mystery speaker will give a speech, which will be evaluated by the contestants. After the speech is delivered, they will be given another five minutes to prepare their evaluation. Contestants will then be scored based on their analysis, recommendation, technique and summation.

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Last Wednesday, I had the honour of conducting a two hour presentation workshop at San Yu Adventist School. It was one of the most enjoyable sessions for many reasons. One, the students were warm and encouraging… and they laugh at ALL my jokes. (grins) Two, Roger (the teacher in-charge) took the trouble to help me set up the room, allowing me to concentrate on delivering the program. Believe me, this is very much appreciated by all trainers. Three, the feedback that the students gave made my day. They were very constructive which allow me to make the next workshop even better! What more can I ask for?

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Weekend’s here. Have a break!

I have always admired Hossan Leong (still do!) for his witty and incisive humor. In fact I am looking forward to watch his next stand up comedy! Meanwhile, enjoy this latest and most talked about “national” song written by Edmund Tan and performed by Hossan.

Here’s the song in case you are looking for it…

We Live In Singapura

Sang Nila, Utama
Saw a lion, alamak
Name the village Singapura, then run very far

Years later, ang mor came
Stamford Raffles was his name
Posed for statues very nice, we kenna colonize

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This is the final installation for the three-part post on upping your stage presence. Here’s a quick recap. In White Dog vs. Black Dog, I gave you an analogy of the eternal fight between two dogs. The white dog is kind and benevolent while the black dog is ferocious and wicked. Whichever dog you feed the most, wins.

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This post is a continuation of White Dog vs. Black Dog. So… have you done your homework? Have you think about what your black dog says to you at the critical times of your presentation? What are the top five that comes up all the time? How do you react physically, emotionally and mentally? Here are some of mine.

Black Dog says…
You don’t deserve to win Eric.
They are laughing just to humor you… the truth is, you are boring.
The audience has no time for you. Hurry up and get off the stage.
Awww.. Eric trying to do his thing again. Don’t you remember how you failed the last time?
You will never be good enough.
You are such a disappointment.

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People, The Lost Traveller, my virginal electronic book is out!!! *fireworks* It was a personal project that my coach, Mei and I took up two months back.

Our intent is to share this ebook with as many people as we can, so that they too, will be inspired to live a life of purpose. This ebook is for free distribution.

The only thing we ask of you is to send it to as many of your friends as you can. Use this ebook as an opportunity to reestablish old ties with them. Remind them of the wonders of living life to the fullest!!!

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