AFR Commissioner, Krissy Barrett’s Debut: A Lesson in Gravitas and Authority

(I first shared these thoughts on LinkedIn over the weekend, but wanted to ensure they reached my regular readers here)

AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett’s first major speech: 8/10

I analysed new AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett’s National Press Club speech on 29 October against what matters most in a senior public official’s first major address: believability, credibility, and presence conveyed through body language, speaking style, and manner.

Barrett’s serious demeanour, measured cadence, even vocal tone and disciplined gesturing matched the gravity of her content. This speech will be a defining point in her career.

Continue reading

Q&A is not the time to make a speech

A few weeks ago I went to Stanton Library in North Sydney to hear author Alexandra Smith give a presentation about her recently published book, The Secret

Smith fielded questions after the presentation.

One questioner rose from his chair with a A4 pad of paper in hand. (Always a worrying sign). The man rambled for over 60 seconds repeating his question three to four times interspersed with free association commentary.

Continue reading

What MATTERS is WHAT the ‘customer’ PERCEIVES’, pt.2

Last week I shared my analysis of a three minute video clip spoken by the former Westpac CEO.

On the theme of ‘What matter is what the customer perceives’ let me share more ideas.

Top performing C-Suite executives I work with are keenly aware of what their facial expression, body language, voice, speaking cadence and words are conveying to their audiences. The default facial expression – of these top performers – often is one of, radiating warmth and acceptance and calm enthusiasm. They are ‘light’ about themselves while taking their job seriously.

Continue reading

STOP Press: NEW Video – PLAN and DELIVER memorable presentations

Delivering presentations can be daunting, even if you’re a seasoned veteran. Often, there’s a lot at stake… perhaps you are selling a product or business case, perhaps you are trying to position yourself for career growth.

To win over your audience, you need to deliver a winning presentation.

My crew and I have produced a video of a live Plan and deliver memorable presentations workshop. In the workshop – conducted for Caltex Australia – you’ll get insider access to how I conduct a live training session.

Continue reading