There are several universal truths about public speaking. Most people hate doing it, and most don't do it well. And not surprisingly, most audiences retain just a fraction of a typical speech's content. So why do we give speeches at all? We give them, says communications expert Nick Morgan, because they remain the most powerful way to connect with audiences. Through insightful examples, Morgan illustrates a practical, three-part process--focusing on content development, rehearsal, and delivery-- geared toward engaging an audience on every level: emotional, intellectual, and physical. Whether speaking to a handful of employees or a keynote audience, anyone can use these principles to give speeches that challenge minds, impassion hearts, and empower audiences to change the world, one idea at a time.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS IX

INTRODUCTION

 The Only Reason to Give a Speech

 Is to Change the World 

PART I HISTORY AND OVERVIEW

CHAPTER 1

 How Did We Get Here? 

CHAPTER 2

 What to Do? The Audience-Centered

 Presentation Process 

PART II PREPARING THE CONTENT

CHAPTER 3

Understand the Audience 

CHAPTER 4

Craft the Elevator Speech 

CHAPTER 5

Pick the Level of Need 

CHAPTER 6

 Find the Story 

CHAPTER 7

 Structure the Content 

CHAPTER 8

 Make the Journey 

CHAPTER 9

 Involve the Audience 

PART III REHEARSING THE PRESENTATION

CHAPTER 10

 Search for the Truth 

CHAPTER 11

 Choreograph the Kinesthetics 

CHAPTER 12

 Pay Attention to What Your Audience Needs 

CHAPTER 13

Conquer Your Fear 

CHAPTER 14

Get Technical 

PART IV STAND AND DELIVER

CHAPTER 15

The Audience-Centered Speech 

CHAPTER 16

Listen to Your Audience 

CHAPTER 17

Audience-Centered Speaking for All Occasions 

CONCLUSION

The Secret of Charisma 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR