What often separates the most successful ad people from others? The ability to effectively speak and communicate. We all can have great ideas and vision, but without the ability to sell them, those ideas won’t get anywhere. And public speaking is of the areas ad agencies often don’t train employees or work to nurture their abilities. Allison Shapira gives a great overview of public speaking, speechwriting, and communication techniques in Speak With Impact: How to Command the Room and Influence Others.
Shapira is a former opera singer, so she’s no stranger to an audience. But she understands how tentative some would-be speakers can be. She does a masterful job of breaking down all the elements of good speechwriting and delivery, from initial preparation to thinking through body language, the use of visual aids, and expecting the unexpected when giving a speech. And, as befits someone with an operatic background, Shapira throws in some voice control and breathing techniques as well. Other situations, like speaking on a panel with others, are also covered.
This isn’t a guide for advertising-specific occasions like campaign presentations or new business pitches — Kerry Feuerman’s book works for that. But in a TED Talk world, we’re becoming more accustomed to seeing people from all walks of life give polished, dynamic speeches. And when you can do that in any setting, there’s no telling how far that skill will take you. Speak With Impact has all the information you need to get up, stand up, and make yourself heard.
Thanks to BookSavvy PR for providing me with a review copy.
