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Welcome Message
The lazy, hazy days of summer are upon us, in all their glory. I hope that you've been able to kick back, relax, catch up with friends, read some great books, and think about the new challenges that you want to face once life gets back in gear in September!
This month's video addresses the entertainment news item that dominated the media this summer -- the news item that you undoubtedly heard about multiple times -- the untimely death of Michael Jackson. Being one of his millions (billions?) of fans back in his 1980's glory days, I felt particularly moved by his death, and watched his memorial service -- and his eulogy by childhood friend Brooke Shields -- with great interest. Did it really fit the format of a proper tribute speech? Watch the video, read the feature article, and let me know what you think!
Before you know it, "Back to School" September will be upon us. Even if you're not a student anymore, why not consider improving your public speaking education by joining a Toastmasters club? Check out the Question of the Month to find out more about Toastmasters and how to find a club near you.
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"Suzannah worked with me to bring out my best qualities as a speaker, and provided invaluable insights to the content and delivery of my speech. Her wordcrafting empowered me to phrase my speeches in a coherent manner, enabling me to capture and maintain the audience's attention, engage them with humour and stories, and deliver a concise message. Her strict attention to details such as movement, facial expressions, pauses and voice control made a big difference in my speech.
-- Donald Venskus
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FREE 30-minute consultation!
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Cool Quote
"Words are, of course, the most powerful drug used by mankind."
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BROOKE'S TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON
Eulogies, tributes, accolades...these types of speeches generally require you to praise the individual being honoured by speaking about their positive qualities and characteristics.
In this 8.5-minute video, Brooke Shields delivers a moving eulogy at Michael Jackson's memorial service. This article will first look at the components of an effective eulogy or tribute speech, and then examine how Brooke's speech measures up.
Components of a good eulogy/tribute speech:
- Speech content must be personalized. Talk about the individual and his/her accomplishments, including:
-- The qualities that make or made the individual worthy of praise.
-- The debt we owe to the individual.
-- The inspiration we may receive or the lessons we may learn from the individual.
-- The individual's place in history.
- Illustrate points with personal stories that demonstrate qualities such as wisdom, caring, sense of humour, or love of life. Be honest and sincere.
- It's ok to use the person's idiosyncrasies and point out that despite shortcomings, the individual still was/is a good person.
- Use humour where possible. It can help provide relief for a stressful event -- or bring laughter to a more positive event.
- If a quote or poem illustrates a point that you're making, feel free to include it.
So how did Brooke do?
She closely followed the format of this type of speech. She talked about MJ, his good qualities, how he inspired people, his legacy, his place in history. She spoke with sincerity and emotion. She told stories about the fun they had at Elizabeth Taylor's wedding, being chased by paparazzi and how she mocked him over the white glove; she used quotes from The Little Prince; and injected funny material wherever possible.
It took her a few moments to compose herself before the speech started. When she finally opened the speech, she started with a fairly neutral, non-emotional statement -- "Michael was one of a kind." This technique may have allowed her to build confidence and poise as she spoke, reducing the risk that she would choke up again. When her voice did shake with emotion at certain points throughout the speech, she would pause, compose herself, and then continue.
Looking at a few delivery points, I was impressed with how effectively Brooke used her notes. She looked at them occasionally but never read directly from them, which could have disconnected her from the audience. The only thing that I found mildly distracting was when she flipped her hair back -- either with her hand, or by flicking her whole head -- which she did at least 10 times during her 8-minute speech. Other than that, this was an excellent example of a poignant, sincere eulogy/tribute speech.
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WHERE WAS I LAST MONTH?
The Empowered Entrepreneur Event
Montreal, QC July 14/09
Thanks to all the ambitious, dedicated entrepreneurs who attended -- you made the day a complete success!
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LIVE AND IN-PERSON (WELL, ON VIDEO...)
 The video recording "Concrete Steps to Public Speaking Skills" workshop, presented at McGill University in March 2009 -- is now online! View the full video.
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QUESTION OF THE MONTH
 "Where can I go to practice and improve my public speaking skills?"
- Marilyn, Halifax NS
Dear Marilyn,
If you're not in the position to hire a coach, I strongly recommend that you try Toastmasters. This wonderful organization helps its members improve their communication and leadership skills while fostering self-confidence and personal growth.
At each meeting, you'll have the opportunity to practice and improve your public speaking skills. And best of all, you'll get feedback and evaluations of your speaking style at every turn, ensuring that you get a better understanding of what your speaking strengths are, and what you need to improve.
I've been a member of a Toastmasters club in Montreal for over 8 years, and it's been an invaluable learning experience. There are thousands of clubs worldwide -- and multiple clubs to choose from in each major city. Find a club near you.
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