Can You Take Self-Deprecation Too Far When You’re Presenting?

By The Newman Group Inc. — Leave a comment
Clever vs Stupid Word Scale

Self Deprecation

A lot of speakers start their presentations or speeches with a self-deprecating remark to get the audience on their side. It’s not uncommon that a powerful leader with established credentials wants to put the audience at ease so he uses self-deprecation to help the audience feel more comfortable. Sometimes he’ll start with a funny story about himself.

On the Other Hand . . .

Too many speakers, however, really feel insecure and believe they are inadequate. They need to get in the first lick – to communicate their own failings before someone else can launch an attack. …Read more…

Business Presentation Skills, Executive Presence, Personal Brand, Presentation Skills

Was the Podium at Your Presentation Too Tall or Were You Too Short?

By The Newman Group Inc. — Leave a comment

Anyone who saw the 2007 video of Queen Elizabeth being greeted by President George H. Bush will never forget that when the Queen stepped to the lectern to speak all you could see was her royal hat.

No one remembers what she said, but they remember her bobbing bonnet. It was a huge embarrassment for the president’s staff. They forgot to place a step-up box at the podium after the tall president spoke so the Queen’s face would be visible when it was her turn to speak.

The following day she addressed Congress and got a big laugh and a standing ovation with her opening line, “I do hope you can see me today.” …Read more…

Business Presentation Skills, Presentation Skills, Virtual communications

Tips to Remember That Name When You’re Drawing a Blank

By The Newman Group, Inc. — Leave a comment

Have you ever been at an event and started to introduce your boss to a Very Important Person and then, out of the blue, you couldn’t remember the VIP’s name? You’re a rare and lucky person if that hasn’t happened to you.

What do you do? How do you recover and save face?

It’s Not the End of the World

During this time of year you will no doubt be making the rounds of parties. Parties mean lots of reconnections and introductions to cope with.

You won’t lose a potential account if you forget a prospect’s name when you bump into him at the bar. It’s how you present yourself and handle the situation. …Read more…

Executive Presence, Personal Brand, Presentation Skills, Remember names

Can You Take Self-Deprecation Too Far?

By The Newman Group, Inc. — 1 comment
Clever Vs Stupid Words Scale Fine Line Humor Taste

Self Deprecation

A lot of speakers start off their presentations or speeches with a self-deprecating remark to get the audience on their side. It’s not uncommon that a powerful leader with established credentials wants to put the audience at ease so he uses self-deprecation to help the audience feel more comfortable. Sometimes he’ll start with a funny story about himself.

On the other hand . . . …Read more…

Business Presentation Skills, Executive Presence, Personal Brand, Presentation Skills