When I was in college I had to take a public speaking class as part of my studies. In the hope of getting the class out of the way as painlessly as possible, I took the class as a three-hour night class. What that meant is that once a week I wandered across campus after dinner and walked into a dark basement classroom where I would count down the hours until it was over. At the time, I felt like this class was a complete waste of my time and I would have much rather spent my night hanging out with friends. However, if I could talk to my 18-year-old self today I would have urged me to take the class more seriously and learn everything I could.
The reality is that whether we like it or not presentations are a vital part of business and life. In fact, according to a study of Australian businesses, 75% of respondents believed that they would gain more respect for their knowledge and expertise in the business world if they were better public speakers.
That means, if you were like me and spent your speech class catching up on social media, you had better start brushing up on your skills and elevating your presentation ability. The saying that, “leaders are readers” has never been truer than in today’s information age. With so much information available at the click of a button we have the ability to constantly improve and educate ourselves. Here are 3 quality books that will help you take your presentation skills to the next level.
“A practical guide based on a proprietary skill assessment tool―a Myers-Briggs for presenters―that provides tips and strategies that address the core element for becoming a successful presenter: YOU”
This book will help you identify your unique presentation persona and then leverage that information to be the best presenter you can be. It will give you the tools needed to tackle the tough crowds and play to your strengths while improving your weaknesses.
Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication by Andy Stanley
“Whether you speak from the pulpit, podium, or the front of a classroom, you don’t need much more than blank stares and faraway looks to tell you you’re not connecting. Take heart before your audience takes leave! You can convey your message in the powerful, life-changing way it deserves to be told. An insightful, entertaining parable that’s an excellent guide for any speaker, Communicating for a Change takes a simple approach to delivering effectively.”
Written through the lens of a pastor, this book is jam packed with powerful information that is applicable to any venue and audience. I have recommended this book to any new presenter as a foundation builder.
Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo
“Ideas are the currency of the twenty-first century. In order to succeed, you need to be able to sell your ideas persuasively. This ability is the single greatest skill that will help you accomplish your dreams. Many people have a fear of public speaking or are insecure about their ability to give a successful presentation. Now public speaking coach and bestselling author Carmine Gallo explores what makes a great presentation by examining the widely acclaimed TED Talks, which have redefined the elements of a successful presentation and become the gold standard for public speaking.”
TED has become the gold standard for presenters becoming a place for thought leaders to share their ideas and inspire others. This book will give you an inside look into what it takes to be a TED speaker along with some practical ways to put into practice this unmatched standard.
Public speaking is a skill that we all must learn to excel at, so don’t waste time wishing away the inevitable, and head over to Amazon today to pick up a copy of these three books to begin to build your presentation toolbox.
Looking for a crash course in presenting? Check out the Presentation Mentor online course today.
