Rule 3: Build a fence

The medium(s) you use to present your ideas play a major role in how engaged your listeners become -- and how much information they retain.

When teaching or informing, using some type of board is preferable, because the speed you write on a board is approximately the same speed tha...

When you start to speak you need to grab (and keep) your audience's attention.

An empowerment promise is a simple statement that clearly explains what the audience can learn from you and why they should care. Use an empowerment promise to explain to your listeners exactly what you can teach...

Once you've captured the attention of your audience, you need to keep it as you build a strong argument for your main point.

The first way to do that is through cycling. You'll circle back to your main point at least three times during your presentation, using repetition for emphasis.

No matter how skilled a speaker you are, it's inevitable that some of your audience members' minds will start to wander

Gving a brief summary of what you've covered so far, invites the audience to refocus on your presentation. Do this every 5-10 minutes to ensure everybody stays with you.

Another way to help your audience "get back on the bus" is to ask a question.

Avoid asking a question that's so simple someone would be embarrassed to answer it. At the same time, you should also avoid asking a question so difficult that no one will be brave enough to answer it.

The most effective communicators know that simply conveying information isn't enough. They also need to inspire their audience to take action.

People feel most inspired when they witness someone who's passionate about what they're doing. In other words, your enthusiasm (or lack thereof) is ...

You have no more than five minutes to convince the listener that your ideas are worthy of their time and attention.

Compelling storytelling not only drives home the main points but also persuades and convinces your audience that you've done something worthy of their consideration.

Your introduction and the way you build your argument are important, but your audience is more likely to remember your conclusion than any other part of your speech.

For that reason, it is recommended that after you summarize your take, you salute the audience -- that is, you tell the audie...