Public speaking
If I am to speak ten minutes, I need a week for preparation; if fifteen minutes, three days; if half an hour, two days; if an hour, I am ready now.
- Woodrow Wilson
There are three things to aim at in public speaking: first, to get into your subject, then to get your subject into yourself, and lastly, to get your subject into the heart of your audience.
- Alexander Gregg
Be sincere; be brief; be seated.
- Franklin D Roosevelt
I believe that speaking in front of a group of any size is one of the most important skills to posses. I have had extensive experience in public speaking. Whether it be with various conferences, teaching engagements, debating, with Toastmasters or at the local church.
Debating
Experience : 17 years
Description : Teams of two participate in a fast-paced, high energy debate as they strive to define an argument disclosed directly preceding the event, with only 10 minutes of preparation. Competitors are judged on their ability to present convincing, well-constructed arguments on a wide range of topics, as well as their ability to refute the opposing teams arguments.
Participation : I've debated in various forums for 17 years and I now chair the annual Quebec and Canadian Engineering Debating Competitions. This gives me the opportunity to evaluate, mentor and coach the best the Engineering schools have.
Toastmasters
Experience : 2 years
Description : Survey after survey shows that presentation skills are crucial to success in the workplace. Many people pay high fees for seminars to gain the skill and confidence necessary to face an audience. Toastmasters provides an option that is less expensive and held in high regard in business circles. This organization has been around for more than 80 years and offers a proven – and enjoyable – way to practice and hone communication and leadership skills.
Participation : In the last 2 years,
- I have accomplished my Competent Communicator
- I have won the 'best speaker award' for 2006-2007 season at the local chapter
- I have won the Toastmasters Improvisation District Public Speaking Contest 2006
- I have introduced debating in Toastmasters to local chapters
- I am presently working towards the Distinguished Toastmasters honor
Availability
In the last 10 years, I have spoken often and in many different formats on my areas of expertise.
Contact me to find out more.