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Be Novel and Surprising
Your three-book collection, Briefly Speaking, is more than just a guide to public speaking; it is an entire educational course presented in an easy-to-understand and relatable manner. Why was this an important book for you to write?
We wanted those who aspire to become better presenters and communicators to have a comprehensive guide so they can achieve their ambitions. We designed the three-book series to focus on Prepare, Present, and Communicate to make it easy to find a topic and get practical, useful skills that can be incorporated immediately. Plus, each tip takes under 30 seconds to read—whether it’s how to open, close, tell a story, structure a presentation, or engage an audience. And each book is small enough to carry with you for easy reference.
Communication techniques and approaches are highly personal, but there are some key factors that are essential for getting your message across. What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
First, decide on your message and identify a singular intention or what you want to achieve. Then scan your life for material that will illustrate your message so that it best engages your audience. Use structure so you don’t ramble, and always speak in a genuine, authentic way to build trust and reduce stage fright. And when you communicate, speak with commitment and certainty.
What is the one most important piece of advice you think all presenters should consider when preparing to give a speech, no matter what the topic is?
Determine what you want to achieve (i.e. your Intention) and what will best serve your audience. Then speak in specifics, not generalities so the audience can visualize your content. And be novel and surprising so that you grab and hold the attention of your audience.
Do you have additional books or materials planned that will complement this collection and help readers continue on their journey to improving their communication skills?
Yes, Own the Room (published by McGraw-Hill) and Out Front: How Women Can Become Engaging, Memorable and Fearless Speakers (published by BenBella Books)
Author Links: GoodReads | Eloqui | Outfront | Briefly Speaking | Amazon
Book 1 – Prepare: Creatively Structure and Rehearse Your Content (5 x 7; 254 pages; $29.99 value)
Book 2 – Present: Techniques from the Professionals’ Playbook (5 x 7; 248 pages; $29.99 value)
Book 3 – Communicate: Make the Greatest Impact (5 x 7; 192 pages; $29.99 value)
Briefly Speaking
Briefly Speaking, by Deborah Shames and David Booth, is an insightful collection of tips designed to help readers prepare and deliver compelling content to an audience. Drawing from psychology, cognitive science, and theater, the book teaches readers how to communicate effectively and persuasively. The book is structured into three comprehensive sections. The first section focuses on speaking with authenticity, developing creative habits, opening and closing conversations, preparing presentations, and storytelling. The second section emphasizes being memorable, delivering confidently, networking, voice and diction, and other key presentation skills. In the third section, readers learn about impactful communication, delivering acceptance speeches, leaving lasting impressions, reading an audience, and examples of influential women in history.
From the outset, it is evident that Shames and Booth practice what they preach. Their intelligent writing is complemented by smart examples and vivid descriptions. For instance, they liken the use of too much detail to overpowering a dish with salt: “Too much detail, like salt, can overpower the palate.” The book is enriched with references to various intriguing sources, such as Paul Ekman’s insights on hand gestures in “Telling Lies” and advice from the movie “The Man Who Would Be King,” making the content relatable and engaging. The non-chronological structure allows readers to navigate the book easily using the table of contents, choosing topics of immediate interest. Additionally, each section ends with a glossary of terms, providing useful definitions that enhance understanding of the lessons presented.
Briefly Speaking offers a wealth of valuable information for professionals, especially those in business. For instance, as someone heavily involved in social events, I learned the importance of eliminating wind-ups and polite introductory phrases to captivate my audience from the start. The book is packed with practical, concise advice and eye-opening examples that are applicable in various scenarios, whether giving a speech at a dinner party, narrating a story, or pitching a business idea.
Deborah Shames and David Booth have crafted a comprehensive guide that is both educational and engaging. Briefly Speaking is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their speaking and presentation skills. The tips are practical, insightful, and sure to help readers convey their messages more effectively. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to enhance your communication skills.
Three Books – 694 Pages | ISBN : 979-8-9897773-4-1
LITERARY TITAN 