The theory and practice of public speaking is simplified and made available to all in this introductory text designed for those with little or no experience in public speaking. It presents basic communication theory; delineates the importance of credibility in persuasive speech and outlines the role of nonverbal communication and paralanguage. A whole chapter is devoted to stage fright and suggestions are offered to reduce this anxiety. A wide assortment of exercises are provided to test critical skills. Originally published by Macmillan in 1982.

A simple road map to the world of professional presentations What happens when you're asked to give a speech, professionally or personally? If you get nervous, start sweating, and hope it's all just a bad dream then you aren't alone, but you need help. Painless Presentations proves that speaking doesn't have to be painful, or even stressful. A speech is a means to giving great, helpful material to an audience and the speaker is the vehicle to achieve that goal. This simple-to-read book guides those just beginning their journey into the world of speaking. Painless Presentations teaches the "Dozen Deadly Dangers" to avoid and much more. Explains how to gather information and materials Details the structure of a presentation Describes uses of visual aids and vocal variety Demonstrates how to handle questions Painless Presentations offers wisdom derived from Lenny Laskowski's thirty-five-year speaking career, delivering more than 2,700 programs to clients in over 178 countries. It will give you no-sweat tips for delivering speeches that win over your audiences every time and teaches you that giving speeches doesn't have to be painful.

Project self-assurance when speaking—even if you don't feel confident! When you speak in public, your reputation is at stake. Whether you're speaking at a conference, pitching for new business, or presenting to your Executive Board, the ability to connect with, influence, and inspire your audience is a critically important skill. Public Speaking Skills For Dummies introduces you to simple, practical, and real-world techniques and insights that will transform your ability to achieve impact through the spoken word. In this book, champion of public speaking Alyson Connolly takes you step by step through the process of conceiving, crafting, and delivering a high-impact presentation. You’ll discover how to overcome your nerves, engage your audience, and convey gravitas—all while getting your message across clearly and concisely. • Bring ideas to life through business storytelling • Use space and achieve an even greater sense of poise • Get your message across with greater clarity, concision, and impact • Deal more effectively with awkward questions Get ready to win over hearts and minds —and deliver the talk of your life!

Speaking in today’s world involves more than prepared talks from behind a podium, and this up-to-date book provides guidance for a wide range of contemporary situations, including conversation, reading aloud to an audience, Skyping, and even giving a traditional formally prepared speech. Exercises throughout the text aid in composing, practicing, and delivering speeches. All titles in Barron’s Painless Series are being updated in new, improved editions, and they all feature access to brand-new subject-related arcade game apps that will appeal to students. Books in the Painless Series cover most classroom subjects, and include a variety of fun features for students who find the subjects difficult and confusing—or in some cases, just plain boring. Painless Books: Are written for middle school and high school students Feature cartoon-style illustrations and humorous approaches to subject matter Emphasize attention-catching ways students can put subjects to practical use Challenge students with puzzles, games, and “Brain Tickler” problems to solve— and now with access to a fun app learning game NOTE: The new apps features that are available with these revised titles can be downloaded on any iPhone, iTouch, iPad, or Android device. They add an extra element of fun to the teaching of each subject.

Written by an expert in the field, this book has the tools you need to become a relaxed, effective, and commanding public speaker. A clear, concise, step-by-step approach with dozens of inside tips, 10 Days to More Confident Public Speaking will help you: Overcome nervousness and discover your own natural style Connect with your audience with your very first words Write a speech that builds to an unforgettable conclusion Expertly blend humor and anecdotes into your talks Use proven techniques to memorize your speech