Recent Articles in Public Speaking
April 16, 2024
The Value in Embracing this Fact: Public speaking is a skill
Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
Sure, some people have a talent for presenting to audiences. But every person can learn the skills of public speaking. Here's why that matters for you.
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March 27, 2024
Organizing Presentations: Some structures that can help
Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
What's your strategy for organizing your public speaking messages? Do you need one? Find some tried-and-true organizational schemes that can help.
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February 12, 2024
5 Tips for Making Company Messages Your Own
Business Communication , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Messaging guidelines and mission statements provide for consistent branding. But the words don't always come out of a speaker's mouth sounding authentic and engaging. Here's what you can do about that.
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January 15, 2024
The Evolution of Executive Presence: Positive changes you can make
Business Communication , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
While ideas about how an executive should look and behave are changing, public speaking and presentation skills are still at the top of everyone's list. See how the evolution of executive presence can work for you.
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January 5, 2024
Public Speaking 101: Help for Beginners
Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips
After a lifetime of avoiding it, imagine you find out you've got to give a presentation. We know you can do it! But where do you begin? Here's a starter guide for getting you on your feet.
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December 26, 2023
Spokesperson Update: Little Library Advocate is All Grown Up
Public Speaking , Resources , Seen|Read|Heard
At eight years old, Madison Reid delivered an impromptu message about books that made a big impression. Where is that powerful little speaker today?
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December 15, 2023
Speaking from a podium: Should you?
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Some speakers can barely bring themselves to approach the thing. Others don't want to present without it. Find our tips for determining how and when to use a lectern.
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December 5, 2023
Speaker’s Wish List: 4 Things to Request When It's Your Turn on Stage
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
You've accepted an invitation to speak at an event. So what should be asking for? Here are four requests that can help you be a more successful speaker.
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November 21, 2023
Three simple ways to make your messages audience-friendly
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Data, new ideas, complex information - presentations can overwhelm an audience quickly. Here are 3 easy changes you can make to help them follow you.
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November 14, 2023
Presentation Questions: How ready are you?
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
When you're working hard on a pitch, don't overlook your prep for Q&A. Find tips here that will help you be ready for challenges.
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October 25, 2023
Presenter With a Scary Smile? 3 Tips for Making Sure That's Not You!
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Almost any public speaking training will encourage a presenter to smile, but not all smiles are created equal. Here's how to make sure you send the right message with yours.
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October 4, 2023
Four painfully obvious truths we forget when presentations hit roadblocks
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Despite how it feels, you're not the first speaker to hit a snag or two. Recall these truths when things are not going quite the way you planned!
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September 26, 2023
Want to Adopt a New Technique? Exaggerate it!
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Gestures & Body Language , Vocal Delivery
Stretching your presentation skills? Try some of our wild-and-crazy ways to appear more naturally in command and at ease.
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September 17, 2023
Our Executive Seminar: What to Expect
The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Welcome to Camden , Alumni
Why do so many make the trek to Camden, S.C. for our communications program? What can you expect from our public speaking course? Here's a look into our process, one that's been described as magical...
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August 28, 2023
5 Simple Ways to Wake Up Your Audience
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
When you're presenting and feel as if the energy has left the room, don't despair! Try one of these 5 simple ways to wake up your audience and get them re-engaged.
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May 4, 2023
Inclusion and Critical Thinking: Choosing to Speak with Simple Words
Public Speaking , Business Communication , Seen|Read|Heard
Need more convincing that simple words are a speaker's friend? A Harvard student makes the case beautifully. See why flaunting a fancy vocabulary may not help you reach your goals.
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April 26, 2023
Uncross your Feet and Other Quick Tips for Taking a Stand
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Gestures & Body Language
Would Venus Williams stand with feet crossed to receive a serve on the tennis court? Our simple tips can help you find your best ready stance when you speak, so you're set to deliver at your best.
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March 14, 2023
Engage the Audience: Making Rhetorical Questions Work
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Rhetorical Devices
A rhetorical question can be a simple yet effective way to wake up an audience. How can you make the most of it?
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March 6, 2023
A Poem to Help Your Public Speaking: Dialogue and Diction
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources
Sara Teasdale was the first woman to receive the Pulitzer Prize for poetry. This month, read her lines aloud to experiment with expressive dialogue - and to give your diction a workout.
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February 27, 2023
Low Expectations and Learning New Skills
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Instruction
Giving yourself permission to try new things without being perfect helps you master new presentation skills. Get some tips for how you can lighten up on yourself!
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February 6, 2023
Poem to Read Aloud: Jessie Redmon Fauset
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Reading poems out loud can improve your public speaking. This month, find poetry by a key influencer of the Harlem Renaissance.
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January 16, 2023
Quotes: How to Mark them in a Presentation
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , PowerPoint , Gestures & Body Language
Want to quote your favorite genius in a speech? Need to emphasize a word on a PowerPoint slide? Be sure you know what message you're sending with those quotation marks.
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December 19, 2022
Voice Health: Taking Care of Yours
Public Speaking , Vocal Delivery
'Tis the season for sore throats and raspy speaking. Learn what you can do year-round to preserve your voice and keep your ability to project strong.
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November 28, 2022
Stage Fright: Understanding Your Anxiety Can Help You Manage It
Public Speaking Fear , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Performance anxiety is a reality for most speakers, according to psychologists. And they say it's not all bad. See how understanding the causes can help you avoid procrastination and be a more successful presenter.
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November 14, 2022
Tips for Teeing Up New Presentation Skills
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
Golf fans know even the best players struggle to incorporate improvements. Yet, we're quick to get frustrated when trying new public speaking skills. Try these tips to fast-track your learning.
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November 7, 2022
Upspeak: What Do You Say When The Voice Rises
Public Speaking , Vocal Delivery , Presentation Tips
A proud part of your identity? Or an annoying speech pattern for audiences? Explore the pros and cons of upspeak and see why we think you should be deliberate in how you use it.
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November 2, 2022
Unfriendly Audiences & What Umpires Can Teach Us About Speaking To Them
Public Speaking , Gestures & Body Language , Presentation Tips , Just For Fun
The 2022 Major League Baseball season was the first to require umpires to display public speaking skills. What can we learn from how they tackled the assignment?
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October 24, 2022
The Art of Q&A
Public Speaking , Business Communication , Presentation Tips
There's no single formula for handling audience questions. See how you can balance your goals with their needs, and how you can strategize for different settings.
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October 17, 2022
Public Speaking Gestures: Find the right 'voice' for your hands
Gestures & Body Language , Public Speaking , Strictly Speaking , Presentation Tips
Worried about inappropriate gestures? (No, not THOSE gestures.) We're thinking about how to strike the right tone in presentations when you talk with your hands.
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October 6, 2022
Pronouns and Presentations: When We, You, They aren’t Clear
Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Do they know you mean them? Is it clear to us and ours? See how more deliberate use of names, nouns, and pronouns can help you make yourself clear.
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October 3, 2022
Poem to Read Aloud: Enhance Your Storytelling Skills
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
This popular children's verse provides a great vehicle for developing more animation in your delivery. This month, try reading aloud about the sailors in the wooden shoe.
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September 19, 2022
Ups & Downs of Public Speaking: The case for varying delivery
Public Speaking , Vocal Delivery , Gestures & Body Language , Presentation Tips
Yes, your energy can engage an audience. But there can be too much of a good thing. See how varying your energy level can help you deliver a more compelling message.
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September 1, 2022
Poetry to help your public speaking: Meet Mary Viola Wilds
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Reading poems out loud can help you enhance your delivery. Learn more about this humble and inspiring poet and give her lines a try.
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August 23, 2022
Better presentations: Delight them with diction
Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Vocal Delivery
Crisp diction is often overlooked, but it can make presentations more engaging and add sparkle to your speaking. Find our simple tips for elevating yours.
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August 12, 2022
Speaking on a Panel: Seven tips to help you succeed
Panel Discussions , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , How To
You've said yes to participating in a panel discussion. What should you do to prepare? Find our tips for being your most brilliant, interesting self.
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August 4, 2022
In-person presentations: Tips for getting back out there
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Gestures & Body Language
After months of online presenting, it can be hard to find your footing in front of live audiences. Here are some easy ways to get your public speaking skills back on track.
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August 2, 2022
Poem to Help Your Public Speaking: An August night with Ms. Millay
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Reading poems out loud is a great way to improve your vocal delivery. This month, find some lines from Edna St. Vincent Millay to help you savor the last days of summer.
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July 28, 2022
Finding a place for stories in your next presentation
Storytelling , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Three Things
Want to bring more storytelling to your presentations? Here are three places it's easy to start...
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July 13, 2022
Plumped up Presentations: Three kinds of filler you might want to reduce
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
Those seemingly harmless words we repeat can undermine our messages. Here's how you can get filler phrases under control.
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June 15, 2022
Ways to Practice When Public Speaking Isn't Part of Your Job
Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Public Speaking Fear
Even if you don't make presentations in the job you have now, you'll probably do more public speaking as your career advances. Here's how to be ready for opportunities coming your way.
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May 20, 2022
Simple is brilliant: Three presentation mindsets that get in the way
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
Complex work by smart people can inspire awe - or make audiences tune out. Brilliant speaker, is it time for you to embrace the genius of simplicity?
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April 21, 2022
Better than your standard open: Getting an event started
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Three Things
What's the best way to connect with your audience when you're not the main attraction? Here are three ways to freshen up those standard welcoming remarks.
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April 7, 2022
When Young Speakers Want to be taken seriously
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Three Things
Young professionals bring lots of strengths to presentations, but they worry about credibility. Extra attention to three public speaking fundamentals can help.
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March 22, 2022
Presenting Under Pressure: Recovering When Things Go Wrong
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
Hit a pothole while making a presentation? Here's how to minimize the problem during your speech and how to bounce back for the long haul.
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February 28, 2022
Personal Experience: The Mother Lode for Speakers
Public Speaking , Storytelling , Strictly Speaking
Your personal experience can bring emotion and authenticity to presentations. Our founder holds forth on choosing the right material and delivering it to delight your audience.
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February 21, 2022
To be seen as a leader: 'Work on public speaking'
Business Communication , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
See why a new study shows that people regarded as leaders aren't necessarily extroverts. They're good communicators.
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February 8, 2022
Experienced Speakers: When Nervousness Surprises You
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
Nerves have a way of sneaking up on even the most experienced public speakers. Here's what you can do when you're surprised to feel a tad nervous.
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February 3, 2022
Poem to Read Aloud: Anne Spencer's Carnival
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Resources
Reading poems out loud improves public speaking. Here's one by Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer.
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January 11, 2022
Getting started when you don't know where to start
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Three Things
Got a presentation to create or a speech to give, but can't find the words? Try these simple ways to give yourself a jump-start.
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January 3, 2022
A simple tool to improve presentations & interviews
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Resources
Not all communication can--or should--be scripted. How can you make your point and minimize the fluff that comes with speaking off the cuff? Here's one simple way to capture what's going on, so you can improve on it.
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December 30, 2021
Resolve Never to Be a Bore
Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
If you're making a New Year's resolution, here's a suggestion from our founder--and some insight into one of the most common mistakes speakers make when preparing a presentation.
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December 7, 2021
Three Tips for Better Group Presentations
How To , Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking
When you have co-presenters, life should be better for everyone. So why are group presentations a challenge? And how can you make your presentation team more effective?
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December 1, 2021
Poem to Help Your Public Speaking: 'Mistletoe'
Poems to Read Aloud , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking
Here's a Walter de la Mare poem full of mistletoe and fairies that you can read aloud to improve your public speaking. (We cannot say how it will affect your odds of getting a holiday peck.)
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November 15, 2021
Public speaking training: The right approach for you
The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Resources
Would you benefit from a class? Or is one-on-one coaching a better fit? Some thoughts on how to choose training that meets your needs.
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October 25, 2021
Three gestures even reticent speakers can (learn to) love
Gestures & Body Language , Public Speaking , Public Speaking Fear , Presentation Tips , Three Things
Even when gestures can bring a lot to a talk, not every public speaker is comfortable using them. Here are three gestures even the most reluctant presenter can embrace.
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October 18, 2021
Public Speaking Fears: Rehearse without going stale
Public Speaking Fear , Public Speaking , Strictly Speaking
Rehearsing helps you build confidence, but bored looks on the audience's faces can bring on a serious case of nerves. How do you practice and keep it fresh? Our founder shares his techniques...
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October 6, 2021
Public Speaking Podcasts: Checking out ‘It Was Said’
Public Speaking , Resources , Seen|Read|Heard , Significant Speeches
Influential athletes like Billie Jean King are the focus of season two of 'It Was Said.' More on this podcast series about speeches and why you may find it helps you think about your own public speaking.
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September 14, 2021
Public Speaking Fears: Write It or Wing It?
Public Speaking Fear , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking
Writing a speech word for word can calm nerves and delivers other benefits, too. Our founder holds forth on the joys of not speaking by the seat of your pants...
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August 23, 2021
Power Posing: Where to find a quick confidence boost
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking Fear
From one of the most viewed TED Talks of all time to the most powerful woman on "Ted Lasso," here's a move that can make you a more confident speaker.
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August 12, 2021
Public Speaking Fears: Organizing to defy nerves
Public Speaking Fear , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking
"Fear keeps steady company with the performing arts," writes our founder. Here's the first step in channeling those nerves...
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August 3, 2021
Poem to Read Aloud: Casey at the Bat
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Just For Fun
Comic timing, drama, gestures, and a sneer that curls the lip: Improve your public speaking in every department by reading baseball's favorite poem out loud.
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July 25, 2021
FAQ: Acronyms in Speeches?
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , How To , Business Communication , Presentation Tips
How should you approach using acronyms in presentations? Like GEICO, we've got something to say about that...
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June 15, 2021
Before you Google a quote for that speech
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
Another's turn of phrase may seem just the thing to make your presentation shine. But before you grab that quote from Google, there are a few things you should figure out.
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May 21, 2021
Amelia Earhart speech: A Woman's Place
On This Day , Significant Speeches , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
She literally set new heights for what women could accomplish--and as a result, was in demand on the lecture tour. Here's an Amelia Earhart speech that can help you consider how to wring the most from your words...
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May 5, 2021
Calm Public Speaking Nerves: Let's talk about self-talk
Public Speaking Fear , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Resources
Are you talking yourself out of succeeding and into a serious case of breathlessness and shaky knees? Whether you're going on stage or on Zoom, change your pre-presentation self-talk and see what happens...
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April 29, 2021
Contemplating Numbers: Presenting to help your audience
Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking
Does your audience have the time or the appetite for all the data in your presentation? Here are a few simple ways to help them grasp the big numbers...
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April 21, 2021
Voice of the Speaker: Pace and Tempo
Vocal Delivery , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , Resources
Your pace can project confidence. Your tempo can cue an emotional response in audiences. Our founder holds forth on how to use both when presenting so that you orchestrate better vocal delivery.
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April 16, 2021
Taking Off: Setting your presentation up for success
Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking
When a presentation takes off well, you can avoid some unnecessary turbulence. Find our tips for aligning your message with your audience.
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April 1, 2021
Poetry to Help Your Public Speaking: The Sweet Spring of Thomas Nashe
Poems to Read Aloud , The Buckley Experience , Resources , Public Speaking
Put some spring in your diction with lines from an Elizabethan troublemaker who appears to have known how to have a little fun...
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March 30, 2021
Better Feedback for Speakers: What's in that sandwich?
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Helpful feedback about presentations tends to be specific. So how can you transcend the feedback sandwich to get something more substantial? Our coaches serve up ideas...
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March 26, 2021
Moved to Tears: Managing Your Emotions When Speaking
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
What should you do if you're telling an emotional story that might make you cry during a presentation? Our advice may spare you unnecessary tears...
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March 17, 2021
Voice of the Speaker: Power of the Pause
Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , Resources
One of the most powerful ways to use the voice in a speech is... to stop speaking? Our founder describes the dramatic potential of a well-timed zip of the lip.
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March 2, 2021
Poems to Help your Public Speaking: Emily Dickinson welcomes March
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources
While a popular new TV series invites you to reimagine America's favorite reclusive poet, we invite you to improve your public speaking with these sassy lines. Watch out, April!
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February 24, 2021
Voice of the Speaker: Managing your Accent
Vocal Delivery , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , Instruction
Does your accent need to be managed? Perhaps, our founder suggests, it should be relished and unleashed!
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February 15, 2021
Audience Rapport: Why you want to make them happy
Presentation Tips , PowerPoint , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Could your hard work on a presentation be undermined by poor seating or a bad room set up? It's good to keep the audience happy. Here's what a speaker can do...
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January 12, 2021
Voice of the Speaker: How Sense Travels
Vocal Delivery , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , Public Speaking Books
Diction, enunciation, and pronunciation--learn how to hone these so your words can cross the vast sea separating speaker and audience.
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December 10, 2020
Connecting the Pieces: Transitions for More Powerful Presentations
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Three Things , PowerPoint , How To
While some PowerPoint fans think "Next slide!" does the job, we know you can do better. Strong transitions help your message connect. Here's how to get started...
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December 2, 2020
Poems to Read Aloud: Burns and Auld Lang Syne
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources , The Buckley Experience
Contemplating a New Year's Eve on Zoom? Make this the year you wow them by knowing all the words to "Auld Lang Syne"--and as you practice aloud, you'll give your public speaking a boost.
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November 25, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Humility of Spirit
Strictly Speaking , Virtues & Vices , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Our founder believed it's the chief virtue for a speaker. What is humility of spirit, exactly? And how the devil can you get some?
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November 18, 2020
Questionable Presentation Advice: Always Tell a Story
Public Speaking , Storytelling , Presentation Tips
Stories are considered by many to be an essential element in every presentation. So why might this standard advice inspire us to think of a cautionary tale?
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November 2, 2020
Reading Marianne Moore to Improve Your Public Speaking
Resources , Public Speaking , Poems to Read Aloud
Here's an enjoyable way to work on phrasing and timing: Read this poem by Marianne Moore out loud and see if you can capture the elusiveness of "The Jelly-fish."
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October 21, 2020
Public Speaking: Managing a Stutter
Resources , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Presidents Day
By talking about his struggles as someone who stutters and how he copes, Joe Biden has brought positive attention and provided encouragement to those who share this public speaking challenge.
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October 13, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Truculence
Virtues & Vices , Public Speaking , Resources , Speaker's Bookshelf , Strictly Speaking
A speaker who is ferocious or harsh, as our founder so eloquently says, "don't win friends." Here's his field guide to truculent speakers--and what you can do to tame them (if they happen to be you).
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October 4, 2020
Sandburg's Jack-O-Lantern: A poem to read aloud
Poems to Read Aloud , The Buckley Experience , Resources , Public Speaking
Reading poetry out loud can improve your public speaking. Here's one by Carl Sandburg that's perfectly suited for the decorative gourd season...
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October 1, 2020
Communication Tips: Making It Clear from Behind the Mask
Public Speaking , Resources
Struggling to make yourself heard from behind the mask? Turns out there are techniques you can use that will also help you improve your public speaking...
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September 1, 2020
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: Robinson Jeffers
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , Travel
Reading poems out loud can help you explore and expand your public speaking delivery style. This month, try "The Stars Go Over a Lonely Ocean" by Robinson Jeffers.
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August 30, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Passion
Virtues & Vices , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking Books , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking
Not to be confused with ranting or reckless enthusiasm, passion that suits your speaking style is key to becoming an influential presenter. Here's how...
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August 5, 2020
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Diacope
Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , The Buckley Experience , Resources , Public Speaking
Dream of having audiences quote lines from your presentations? Maybe this little rhetorical device is just the can of spinach to make your next speech pop...
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August 2, 2020
Nonsense verse to make a point: Reading Sukumar Ray
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
A king who wants to frame his chocolates? A wack autocrat whacking pumpkins with a bat? A read aloud from poet Sukumar Ray can improve your public speaking--and may be just what we need right now...
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July 21, 2020
Public Speaking: Tips from Mr. Noodle
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips , Just For Fun
What can Sesame Street's goofy Mr. Noodle teach you about public speaking? More than you might think...
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July 19, 2020
John Lewis: Good Trouble at the March on Washington
Great Speeches , Significant Speeches , Resources , Public Speaking
Skilled in oratory from an early age, John Lewis was the youngest speaker at the March on Washington. Learn how his fiery approach surprised other civil rights leaders and their last-minute efforts to tone it down...
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July 13, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Pomposity
Virtues & Vices , Public Speaking , Strictly Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Our founder called this "a creeping disease" to which any public speaker can be vulnerable. Could you be stricken? And what do you think of Reid Buckley's shocking cure?
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July 2, 2020
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: Bennett and Dumas
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
We're inspired this month by the poems of Gwendolyn Bennett AND the real-life swashbuckler who inspired Alexandre Dumas. Here's a poem to read aloud...
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June 30, 2020
Quarantine and the Art of Being Heard
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Three Things
Close quarters. Hot issues. Maybe tried-and-true communication tactics can help you get through to people who aren't listening even when it's for their own good...
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May 27, 2020
How We're Working During the Pandemic
School News , Public Speaking , Faculty
We're still helping people with their messages--and we miss seeing you in person! Here's how we're working these days...
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April 15, 2020
Keeping them Engaged: When routine messages can't afford to be routine
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Weekly meetings, monthly updates, daily safety messages - find some tips for keeping everyone motivated, including yourself...
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April 2, 2020
Poem to Read Aloud: A Shakespeare Sonnet for your Quarantine
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Not feeling up to writing your "King Lear" during the coronavirus quarantine? How about a more modest goal: Read 14 lines aloud and improve your public speaking instead...
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March 29, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Decency
Virtues & Vices , Strictly Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Public Speaking Books
He's the expert we count on, the one who can avoid partisan nonsense. This excerpt from Reid Buckley's "Strictly Speaking" has us thinking about one of the chief qualities of Dr. Anthony Fauci's public speaking...
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March 26, 2020
Eloquent Women: A Quest to Highlight Great Speeches
Public Speaking , Great Speeches , Resources
If you're looking for examples of great speeches by women, Denise Graveline left us with a wonderful resource. Because it's Women's History Month, we were inspired to bring you her Famous Speech Friday posts...
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March 23, 2020
Our Expert Helps: Homeschool with a public speaking twist
Faculty , Resources , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Poems to Read Aloud
New to the school-at-home thing? Want some help? Here are some ways to have more fun, courtesy of Buckley faculty Jana Daley--a homeschool pro, who's also trained young debate champs.
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March 15, 2020
Communicating about COVID19: Resources to help
Resources , Business Communication , Public Speaking
How can you best communicate important messages about the coronavirus to your employees, customers and community? Here are some resources to help:
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February 17, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Belligerence
Virtues & Vices , Strictly Speaking , Public Speaking , Resources , Business Communication
Worried that you antagonize audiences? Or perhaps that's your goal! Check out our founder's case for warming up your stage presence and his unconventional steps to get you there...
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February 10, 2020
Paralinguistics: The science behind your presentation skills
Just For Fun , Seen|Read|Heard , Resources , Public Speaking
We give a big thumbs up to gestures in public speaking. Science says there's a reason we're fans of talking with our hands...
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February 3, 2020
Love & Friendship: A Poem to Help Your Public Speaking
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Just For Fun
Reading this one aloud will give your diction and enunciation a boost. It might also improve your friendships!
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January 20, 2020
Public Speaking Virtues & Vices: Honesty
Virtues & Vices , Strictly Speaking , Resources , Public Speaking , Business Communication
"Character is the primary element a speaker brings to the stage. Everything else can be learned," wrote our founder. Get his honest advice...
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January 14, 2020
Like, when speaking: Too much of a good thing
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , How To , Business Communication
If you know speakers who overuse "like," maybe it's time to help them find some new words. Here's how to reduce our least favorite disruptor...
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January 2, 2020
Poem to Help Your Public Speaking: The Darkling Thrush
Public Speaking , Poems to Read Aloud , The Buckley Experience
Read this well-known poem out loud and you can start the new year by giving your enunciation a workout...
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December 13, 2019
Mayor, Executive: 'All speaking is public speaking'
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Alumni
Persuasive communication has always been part of his job description but as a mayor, this automotive industry executive has honed new skills. How his experiences can help you...
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December 3, 2019
Questionable Presentation Advice: Never use profanity
Presentation Tips , Just For Fun , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Is there ever a dang good reason to let loose with a four-letter word in a speech or presentation? Here's a look at the science and strategy of the well-chosen word...
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November 8, 2019
Job Requires Public Speaking: Will you take it?
Public Speaking , Public Speaking Fear , Presentation Tips , Seen|Read|Heard
Will you pass on your dream job if public speaking is required? Here's what you can do if your presentation fears are holding you back...
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November 1, 2019
A Poem to Read Aloud: McKay's 'Coming North'
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Poet, novelist, and leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance, Jamaican-born Claude McKay is the source for our poem this month. Read his work out loud to improve your public speaking...
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October 23, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Assuming All Audiences Respond the Same Way
Cardinal Sins , Strictly Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Some audiences laugh easily. Others not so much. When you take your presentation on the road, here's why it pays to keep regional and cultural differences in mind...
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October 21, 2019
Crafting a Great Story: Show Don’t Tell
How To , Storytelling , Public Speaking , Instruction
How does one man's tale of shopping for shoes with his wife become a powerful, potentially funny presentation story? It's all in the details...
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October 16, 2019
PowerPoint Makeovers: Three Quick Fixes
Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking , PowerPoint
Simple changes can make your too-busy slides much more audience friendly. Here are three quick ways to clean up a PowerPoint presentation...
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October 14, 2019
How To: Make Eye Contact
How To , Instruction , Public Speaking , Resources
Sure, most speakers know they should make eye contact. But are you getting the most out of it when you present? Here's what the best public speakers do...
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October 13, 2019
Public Speaking Nerves: How One High-Profile Speaker Copes
Public Speaking Fear , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
She speaks to large crowds. She's used to hostile audiences. She's known for making bold statements. And she still gets nervous. Here's how this public speaker deals with it and what you can learn...
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September 30, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: ASTERISMOS
Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , Public Speaking , Resources
Verbal tic of a careless speaker? Or smart tactic to make audiences aware that something worth starring and remembering is coming their way? Behold, asterismos...
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September 16, 2019
To Be Repeated: The Stump Speech
Public Speaking , On This Day , Resources , Seen|Read|Heard
What can we learn from a stump about business presentations? How about the power of connecting, the efficiency of creating a consistent message, and the beauty of knowing when to incorporate a twist...
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September 13, 2019
How To: Project Confidence
How To , Business Communication , Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
Most speakers want to appear confident. When you know what that looks like, you can project a more powerful stage presence—whether you're feeling it or not. Here's how...
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September 5, 2019
The King’s Speech: New Inspiration for Speakers Who Stammer
Public Speaking Fear , Significant Speeches , Great Speeches , Resources , Public Speaking
Eighty years after Great Britain's king overcame his stuttter to address the nation, his courage still provides inspiration to stammerers...and is helping them change perceptions about speaking in public.
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September 2, 2019
Poems to Read Aloud: Of storms and trees
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources
Tracking Hurricane Dorian this week led us to poet Amelia Josephine Burr--and some poems you can read aloud to improve your public speaking.
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August 29, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Antonomasia
Rhetorical Devices , Resources , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
What's in a name? Perhaps a lot more when you employ this rhetorical device in your public speaking. Here's how it's used for good and for evil...
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August 23, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Failing to Appeal to Emotion
Cardinal Sins , Public Speaking , Strictly Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Presentation Tips
Even the most brilliant audiences need more than facts. From our founder's 10 cardinal sins, why you've got to break out of that box and get the audience to have feelings for you.
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August 22, 2019
Presentation Skills: Got Charisma?
Public Speaking , Resources , Presentation Tips , Strictly Speaking
It's that quality we struggle to define, yet seems to sparkle in the best public speakers. At The Buckley School, we call it personal magnetism. Here's how you can develop yours...
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August 9, 2019
How To: Manage Uhs and Ums
How To , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Crutch words. Filler language. A natural way we all speak. What should you do about the uhs and ums when you're making a presentation? We have a few ideas...
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August 5, 2019
Ditching Jargon to Promote Success
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Faculty , Presentation Tips
Universities are starting to do something about their mind-boggling jargon. Here's how that can help you reassess your own approach to business communication...
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August 1, 2019
Poem to Read Aloud: Emily Brontë
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources , The Buckley Experience
Though famous for giving us "Wuthering Heights," Emily Brontë also wrote 200 poems in her 30 short years. Read one of them out loud this month to improve your public speaking...
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July 29, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Adynaton
Rhetorical Devices , Instruction , Public Speaking , Resources
What happens when you super-size your hyperbole? You might get a more memorable expression for your next presentation. A look at flying pigs, whistling crawfish and adynaton...
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July 25, 2019
Michelle Obama: When They Go Low
On This Day , Great Speeches , Public Speaking , Instruction
It's been three years since Michelle Obama spoke at the Democratic National Convention and gave us the line we still quote today. Here's what you can learn from her approach to public speaking...
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July 23, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Grandiose Allusions
Cardinal Sins , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , The Buckley Experience , Strictly Speaking
"Count on this: almost nobody who quotes Plato has read Plato," writes Reid Buckley in his advice to speakers. Before you start strutting that stuff in your next speech, consider the consequences...
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July 5, 2019
Vulnerable, Courageous: Speaking to Defy the Odds
Alumni , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Public speaking skills help prison inmates restore self-esteem and succeed on the outside. No one knows that better than Quan Huynh. Here's how he's using his voice to help other incarcerated men and women defy the odds...
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July 4, 2019
Douglass: 'What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?'
Significant Speeches , Great Speeches , On This Day , Resources , Public Speaking
On July 5, 1852, Frederick Douglass believed his well-timed remarks would get noticed. It's become one of the most important speeches in American history.
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July 1, 2019
Poem to Read Aloud: I Hear America Singing
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Resources
When you tire of hearing America shoot off its July 4th fireworks, improve your public speaking (and soothe your jangled nerves) with these lines from one of America's most influential poets.
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June 21, 2019
Your Big Idea: The Poster Approach to Public Speaking
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Resources
What can we learn from a well-designed poster? There's a movement afoot to change how scientists use poster presentations to communicate. The same techniques can work in your presentations...
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June 10, 2019
Public Speaking & Storytelling: Stories to Teach
Resources , Public Speaking , Business Communication , Presentation Tips , Storytelling
Can a story help at-risk teens learn to make better choices? One former L.A. gang member thinks so. Here's how our Buckley coach helped him use his stories to teach and how the same ideas can work for your presentations...
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June 5, 2019
The Eyes of the World are Upon You: Eisenhower's D-day Speech
Significant Speeches , On This Day , Public Speaking , Great Speeches , Resources , Presentation Tips , Presidents Day
On this day, Gen. Dwight Eisenhower recorded a message for D-day troops. Learn more about how this speech came together and the edits that made his words more powerful...
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May 30, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Metanoia
Rhetorical Devices , Resources , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
Want to contrive to sound more spontaneous in a speech?To make a harsh point without having the audience dislike--nay, kill the messenger? Consider using the "backspace" of rhetorical devices...
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May 29, 2019
On This Day: Ain't I a Woman
On This Day , Great Speeches , Significant Speeches , Public Speaking
Inspiring awe with her plain speaking, commanding presence, musical voice, and wit, Sojourner Truth gave her most quoted speech on a May day in Ohio, 168 years ago. But did she even say that famous line? And why does that speech still resonate today?
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May 26, 2019
Reading Aloud: A shortcut to speaking confidence?
Public Speaking , Public Speaking Fear , Seen|Read|Heard , The Buckley Experience
We know reading aloud improves your public speaking. A barber says it's also a shortcut to conquering your fear. Read how he's helping kids find the courage to speak up.
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May 14, 2019
Speaking Opportunities: Why You Should Take Them!
Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking , Resources
If public speaking is stressful, why should you look for every opportunity to present? Yes, practice makes perfect--but there are other good reasons you may not have considered yet...
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May 13, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Avoid fad phrases
Strictly Speaking , Cardinal Sins , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
From our founder's 10 Cardinal Sins that amateur public speakers commit: Before you toss in the latest trendy expression, consider whether it's already dated...or worse.
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May 10, 2019
Questionable Presentation Advice: Count Out Your Points
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Instruction
Enumerating your points can help you organize AND help your audience follow along. So why do we always offer this tip with a warning? Four reasons...
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May 7, 2019
Economic Developer: Speaking to Motivate Communities
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Resources , Business Communication
How do you convince leaders to take action before a crisis comes to town? Economic developer Crystal Morphis says public speaking is one of her most important skills for helping communities stay open for business...
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May 6, 2019
On this Day: The Real MVP
On This Day , Public Speaking , Great Speeches , Seen|Read|Heard
On this day in 2014, Kevin Durant spoke from the heart to pay tribute to his mother. Here's why serious speakers should give his speech another look, all memes aside...
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April 26, 2019
Three Things to Tell Yourself When You’re Nervous
Public Speaking Fear , Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking
That voice in your head? Give it a new script! Try these lines to talk yourself into being a more confident speaker...
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April 25, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Anthimeria
Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , Resources , Public Speaking
It can bring delight. It can make you wince. You can reject it, even return it. See how this rhetorical device "gooses the English language" as we gift you a look at anthimeria...
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April 17, 2019
Debating, Civil Discourse, & Better Public Speaking
Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking Fear , Seen|Read|Heard
Can building killer arguments lead to more civil conversations? College students on the lessons we can learn from competitive debate...and how it can refine your presentation skills.
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April 12, 2019
On This Day: The Ballot or the Bullet
Significant Speeches , Great Speeches , On This Day , Resources , Public Speaking
The speech he gave on this day is considered one of the top 10 American speeches of the 20th century. Here's what we can learn from Malcolm X and "The Ballot or the Bullet."
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April 9, 2019
Business Communication: Presenting at the Conference Table
Business Communication , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , How To
You may not be standing on a stage--or even in front of a small group--but a seated presentation is no time to take a holiday. Here's how to pitch at the conference table and still own the room...
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March 21, 2019
Patrick Henry's Death-Defying Oratory
Significant Speeches , Public Speaking , On This Day , Resources
Patrick Henry's best-known speech makes the case for passion, parallel structure, and the power of simple words. But did he really say his most famous line? Or did he ad lib something else?
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March 19, 2019
How To: Create a Strong Open for Your Presentation
How To , Public Speaking , Instruction
The golden opportunity: To grab audience attention before they can start checking their phones. Here's a step by step process for determining how a public speaker can open strong.
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March 18, 2019
March Madness: Some Public Speaking Slam Dunks
Just For Fun , Public Speaking , Resources , Public Speaking Fear , Travel , Presentation Tips
March Madness fans are arriving in our neighborhood, hoping to see Zion Williamson, perhaps unaware they could improve their presentation skills while watching the big games...
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March 13, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Tricolon
Rhetorical Devices , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Just For Fun
What public speaking technique can bring a certain fullness, roundness, or tension to help your message take off? Try this month's rhetorical device...
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March 5, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: 'I would submit'
Strictly Speaking , Cardinal Sins , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
You hear it in speeches all the time. That doesn't mean it's a good idea. From our founder's 10 Cardinal Sins of Public Speaking, we would submit to you the conditional tense...
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March 2, 2019
Questionable Advice: 'Dumb Down that Presentation'
Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips
Before you despair over "dumbing down" your presentation, consider how you can be smarter about making complex information accessible.
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March 1, 2019
Poetry to Read Aloud: Grimké and 'The Kiss'
Poems to Read Aloud , Seen|Read|Heard , Resources , Public Speaking
The first African American woman to have her play produced publicly, Angelina Weld Grimké also wrote more than 170 poems, including this month's lines for you to read aloud...
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February 23, 2019
How To: Take a Stand When Presenting
How To , Resources , Instruction , Public Speaking
"Be sure to put your feet in the right place, then stand firm," said Abraham Lincoln--great advice for public speaking that we take quite literally. Here's why you should, too...
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February 20, 2019
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Antithesis
Rhetorical Devices , Resources , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Great Speeches
Why are we pro-antithesis? Here's how this artful juxtaposition can sharpen your point, challenge injustice, or make hearts soar--and make your words more memorable.
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February 7, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Opening with a Joke
Strictly Speaking , Cardinal Sins , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , The Buckley Experience
What must public speakers avoid if they don't want to make the amateur's mistakes? Next from our founder's 10 Cardinal Sins of Public Speaking, why canned jokes are no laughing matter...
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February 1, 2019
Poetry to Read Aloud: James Weldon Johnson
Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Resources
Poet, civil rights leader, teacher, diplomat - the incredible James Weldon Johnson even won a prize for oratory as a college student. This month, we offer one of his poems to help your public speaking...
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January 29, 2019
Improve your Presentations: New options for 2019
The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Instruction
We've designed two new open-enrollment courses and a video option for coaching. Learn more about how we can help you advance your public speaking skills and improve your professional presentations...
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January 28, 2019
Winning with Humor: 'Should Men Vote?'
Significant Speeches , On This Day , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Suffragist Nellie McClung was tired of the put downs and excuses, so she used her talents for public speaking and humor to fight back...
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January 21, 2019
Questionable Advice Department: Hand out Your PowerPoint in Advance
Resources , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , PowerPoint
Should you give the audience your PowerPoint deck before you present it? Why we question that advice on handouts and what you can do instead...
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January 14, 2019
How to: Use Gestures in a Presentation
How To , Gestures & Body Language , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Do you talk with your hands? Terrific! Now let's make sure those gestures are saying what you mean...
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January 6, 2019
Public Speaking Sins: Arrogance & Conceit
Public Speaking , Strictly Speaking , Cardinal Sins , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking Books , Presentation Tips
What must public speakers avoid if they don't want to make the mistakes of an amateur? Our founder's 10 Cardinal Sins of Public Speaking, starting with one that requires "cleansing your spirit."
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January 5, 2019
Helen Keller's Remarkable Public Speaking
On This Day , Significant Speeches , Seen|Read|Heard , Resources , Public Speaking
We all know Helen Keller as a remarkable person--but how much do you know about her career as a public speaker? On January 5, 1916, 35-year-old Keller spoke at Carnegie Hall...
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January 1, 2019
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: E.A. Robinson's Cheevy
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking
"Miniver cursed the commonplace/And eyed a khaki suit with loathing." Add more color to your public speaking with these lines to read aloud from Edwin Arlington Robinson...
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December 21, 2018
Books for Speakers: A biography and a memoir
Public Speaking , Resources , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books
Their public speaking has awed and inspired. Will their life stories give clues to what made their speeches so powerful? We're eager to read two of the hottest books in stores right now...
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December 20, 2018
All I Want for Christmas: PowerPoint to Pitch the Parents
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Seen|Read|Heard , PowerPoint
Should Santa be on the lookout for more PowerPoint presentations? Here's how The New York Times says kids are using formal pitches to persuade their parents...
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December 7, 2018
FDR's Speech and the Day That Lives in Infamy
On This Day , Significant Speeches , Great Speeches , Public Speaking , Presidents Day
How Franklin D. Roosevelt drafted one of history's best known and oft misquoted lines--and what his speech can teach us about the importance of working to find the right words...
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December 4, 2018
Speaking in Public: The Art of Public Speaking
Public Speaking , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books , The Buckley Experience , Speaking in Public
All year, we've featured excerpts from Reid Buckley's first book on public speaking. This month, we come to the last chapter ... and some final words to inspire you to create artful presentations.
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December 2, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Get the Audience Involved
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Seen|Read|Heard
Of course, you want the audience engaged when you're presenting. But before you ask them to close their eyes or get up on their feet, consider this...
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December 1, 2018
Poetry to Help Your Public Speaking: Joyce Kilmer
Poems to Read Aloud , The Buckley Experience , Resources , Public Speaking
Most famous for the poem "Trees," Joyce Kilmer did much more in his short life, including writing the poem we're featuring this month for your read aloud practice...
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November 19, 2018
On This Day: The Gettysburg Address
Significant Speeches , On This Day , Great Speeches , Public Speaking , Presidents Day
Seven score and 15 years ago on this day, Abraham Lincoln delivered a 270 word address that is still teaching us lessons about public speaking today...
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November 13, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Smile More
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Instruction
Asking a speaker to smile more may earn you a grimace or a frown. Here's how to solve the real problem with speaker engagement and facial expressions...
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November 12, 2018
Tips for Mastering Public Speaking Skills More Quickly
Three Things , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
Helping military members master new communication skills has also taught us a few things. Here's how you can jump in, embrace the challenge, and accelerate your learning...
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November 9, 2018
Speaking in Public: Writing to be Heard
30th Anniversary , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Public Speaking Books , Speaker's Bookshelf , Speaking in Public
Short sentences make for better speeches, as a rule. Here's what our compound-sentence-loving founder has to say about writing to be heard...
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November 8, 2018
How To: Calm Public Speaking Nerves
Public Speaking Fear , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Instruction , How To
When you feel nervousness coming on, what's a speaker to do? Here's how to manage that I'm-on-next stress and keep nerves from undermining your presentation...
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October 17, 2018
Presenting to Decision Makers: Tips for a Better Pitch
Resources , Presentation Tips , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
Presenting to the C-Suite or a promising new client is the opportunity you've been working for. Avoid these common mistakes when you make your pitch...
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October 16, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Walk to Engage the Audience
Resources , Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips
Walk around the room to connect with the audience? Yeah, we've heard that one, too. Before you step in it bigtime, consider our take...
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October 15, 2018
Speaking in Public: Finding & Using Your Natural Strengths
Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , 30th Anniversary , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books , Resources , Speaking in Public
Understanding your presentation style and making the most of it - The Buckley School's founder on why that's the single most important thing a speaker can do...
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October 5, 2018
Secret of Public Speaking Success? Debate
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , The Buckley Experience
"Igniting change through words." That's a goal of the nation's top-ranked high school public speaker. She shares how participating in debates can make that possible in your presentations...
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October 2, 2018
Poem to Read Aloud: Edgar Allen Poe
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience
Reading poems out loud can bring more color and drama to your public speaking. Try these lines from a master of creating that certain mood...
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September 26, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Dysphemism
Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , Resources , Public Speaking
If a euphemism is a substitution that softens an expression, then the opposite of that would be...our latest rhetorical device of the month.
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September 23, 2018
On This Day: The Checkers Speech
Public Speaking , Significant Speeches , On This Day , Presidents Day
On this day in 1952, Richard Nixon and a cocker spaniel gave the world a televised address we still talk about. Check out the Checkers speech....
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September 20, 2018
Books for Speakers: Bird by Bird
Public Speaking , Alumni , Resources , Speaker's Bookshelf
"Joy just oozes from this book," writes the Buckley alum who recommends it. You'll also find lots of help for using your stories and voice to bring more life (and humor) to speeches and presentations.
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September 18, 2018
Public Speaking Tips: Get More From Your Voice
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Vocal Delivery
You don't need a different voice. You need to make the most of the one you have! Three ways to do that, plus a lifetime of insights from the Buckley vocal coach who pushes our students to stretch their performances...
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September 12, 2018
On This Day: 'We choose to go to the Moon'
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Great Speeches , Significant Speeches , On This Day , Presidents Day
We do these things "not because they are easy, but because they are hard." On this day in 1962, President Kennedy gave a speech with lines that still resonate. What he said, how he said it, and what you can learn about speeches to inspire a vision...
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September 7, 2018
How to: Format a speech text
How To , Resources , Presentation Tips , Instruction , Public Speaking
Simple formatting changes can make it much easier to give a speech from a written text. Here's what you can do to see almost instant results:
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September 6, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Always Repeat Audience Questions
Resources , Presentation Tips , Instruction , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
Maybe you've heard this tip for handling Q&A sessions after a speech or presentation: Always repeat the question before you answer it. But it's not that simple...
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September 1, 2018
A Poem to Help Your Public Speaking: September Midnight
Public Speaking , Poems to Read Aloud , Just For Fun , The Buckley Experience , Resources
Like a late-night espresso to awaken even the laziest enunciation, we serve up these lines from poet Sara Teasdale to read aloud...
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August 27, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Anadiplosis
Public Speaking , Resources , Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , The Buckley Experience , Instruction
A rhetorical device put to good use by Yoda, Shakespeare, Malcolm X, and Jay-Z: Here's another way to build a powerful statement through repetition...
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August 20, 2018
'More Public Speaking, Less PowerPoint'
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , PowerPoint
The Army is revamping a 40-year-old training program to move away from PowerPoint and toward good, old-fashioned communication skills. Here's why...
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August 19, 2018
Speaking in Public: Posture & First Impressions
Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking Books , Speaker's Bookshelf , Instruction , Speaking in Public
A too-casual style can send unintended messages, says our founder. His tips for starting well and standing tall in your next presentation...
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August 18, 2018
Aretha Franklin: Public Speaking Lessons from the Queen
Faculty , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
Recalling all that she loved about one of her favorite singers, Buckley faculty Katie Pope also realizes Aretha Franklin is a model for becoming an excellent speaker...
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August 15, 2018
Finding Your Voice to Inspire Change
Public Speaking , Alumni
Public speaking to end sexual assault and domestic violence requires the ability to tell persuasive stories, translate data, and connect with diverse audiences. How one speaker found her voice and how that can help you...
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August 13, 2018
Let’s Go There: Your Public Speaking Mindset
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips
Might your dread of public speaking be worse than the experience itself? A look at the connection between mindset and public speaking success...
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August 10, 2018
Better Stories for Your Next Presentation
Resources , Public Speaking , Three Things , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Storytelling
Personal stories can bring a presentation to life. Apply these easy-to-use writing workshop tips to bring more life to your stories...
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August 7, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Open With a Joke
Resources , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Instruction
When well-meaning public speaking advice goes wrong: Why you might not want to open that can of jokes.
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August 1, 2018
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: Hardy's August Midnight
Poems to Read Aloud , Resources , Public Speaking , Just For Fun , The Buckley Experience
Delight Potter fans, bee enthusiasts--and improve your public speaking through attention to cadence and timing--with a little help from Thomas Hardy and this month's poem to read aloud.
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July 29, 2018
Speaking in Public: Lean, Clean Messages
Public Speaking Books , 30th Anniversary , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Speaker's Bookshelf , Speaking in Public
Public speaking benefits when ideas are expressed in lean, clean sentences. Here is Reid Buckley's recipe for unstuffing messages so they're easier to follow...
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July 27, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Litotes
Rhetorical Devices , Just For Fun , Resources , Public Speaking , Instruction , The Buckley Experience
With hyperbole the likes of which the world has never seen and "double negative" trending, it's not a bad time to explore understatement and the potential of this rhetorical device for your public speaking...
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July 16, 2018
3 Tips for Better PowerPoint in 30 seconds
Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Three Things , PowerPoint
You can get a better PowerPoint presentation in 30 seconds, just by making a few simple changes. Here's how...
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July 11, 2018
Questionable Presentation Advice: Speak from the heart
Public Speaking , Resources , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , The Buckley Experience
Heard some public speaking advice that made you wonder? Us, too. Here's another take on the old "speak from the heart" tip...
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July 5, 2018
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: The Traveller-Heart
Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud
His poems were made wildly popular by his spellbinding delivery. Who better to provide this month's poem to real aloud?
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July 2, 2018
Books for Speakers: Orators of the American Revolution
Public Speaking Books , Speaker's Bookshelf , Resources , Public Speaking
The public speaking techniques used by Patrick Henry & Co. are remarkably similar to the ones that can work for you today....
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June 28, 2018
Speaking in Public: How to Use a Lectern
Public Speaking Books , 30th Anniversary , Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Speaker's Bookshelf , Presentation Tips , Speaking in Public
A lectern can be a great home base for a speaker, when used well. Reid Buckley provides a professional speaker's tips and perspective from the podium...
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June 19, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Synecdoche
Resources , Public Speaking , Just For Fun , Rhetorical Devices , Instruction
The rhetorical device we all love using, whether we know it or not: Here's to more colorful public speaking by way of synecdoche!
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June 5, 2018
Using Quotes in Speeches: Should You?
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Just For Fun
Should you use a quote in your next speech or presentation? A graduation speech making news for its use of a quote inspires us to weigh in...
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June 4, 2018
Poems to Help Your Public Speaking: Diction for A June Night
Resources , Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Her most famous lines are forever connected to the Statue of Liberty. This month's poem to read aloud comes from Emma Lazarus...
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May 27, 2018
Speaking in Public: Making it Interesting
Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , 30th Anniversary , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books , Speaking in Public
Spreadsheets? A boat load of data? A little imagination can turn seemingly boring stuff into lively presentations. Here's our founder's take on how to do that...
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April 20, 2018
Books for Speakers: Lend Me Your Ears
Public Speaking , Resources , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books
Some people read cookbooks for fun. Buckley coaches read anthologies of speeches. Here's one we think you'll enjoy....
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April 18, 2018
3 simple ways to build audience rapport
Three Things , Public Speaking , Instruction , Presentation Tips , Faculty , The Buckley Experience
When the audience likes you, they're more receptive to your presentation. Here are simple ways to win that rapport the next time you speak...
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April 5, 2018
Presentation Advice: The Case for the Simple Word
Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , The Buckley Experience , 30th Anniversary , Public Speaking Books , Resources , Speaking in Public
Thirty years ago, The Buckley School launched its flagship program and founder Reid Buckley published his first book on public speaking. From Chapter 9, here's his multi-syllabled advice for using the simple word...
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March 29, 2018
Beyond 'You Were Great!' - 3 Tips for Getting Helpful Feedback
Presentation Tips , Three Things , Public Speaking
"You were great!" It's the response most people hear when they ask for feedback on a speech or presentation. Here's how to get the stuff you can actually use...
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March 20, 2018
On Gestures: Five Principles for Public Speaking
Gestures & Body Language , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking Books , Speaking in Public
How best to use your hands when speaking? Our founder got his inspiration from a variety of sources. Those--plus his five tips for gestures, from his first book on public speaking...
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March 9, 2018
Standing Up to Public Speaking Fears
Resources , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Three Things , Just For Fun , Presentation Tips
When a hospital administrator wanted to give her career a boost, she had to overcome her fear of public speaking. So she took on an even scarier challenge. Should you?
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February 26, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Chiasmus
Public Speaking Books , Speaker's Bookshelf , Rhetorical Devices , Public Speaking
How do you turn the ideas in your speeches into lines people will remember? One rhetorical device you can use is the literal turn of phrase called chiasmus....
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February 20, 2018
Speaking in Public: Using Humor and Wit
Public Speaking Books , Speaker's Bookshelf , The Buckley Experience , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , 30th Anniversary , Speaking in Public
Our founder's first book on speaking was "Speaking in Public." As we mark our 30th anniversary, we're sharing excerpts, including Reid's take on adding humor and wit to your public speaking...
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February 13, 2018
Comfortable in the Spotlight: 3 Public Speaking Tips for Shy Speakers
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
Introverts, take heart! Every speaker can find a way to own the stage, even the ones who'd prefer not to be there. Here's how...
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February 2, 2018
Books for Speakers: On Speaking Well
Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking , Resources , Instruction , Public Speaking Books
Oprah's speech at The Golden Globes has our students asking "How did she do that?" Peggy Noonan's excellent book offers some insight...
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January 18, 2018
Speaking with an Accent: Love it or Lose it?
Resources , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
Should public speakers and presenters try to reduce their accents? As "The World In Words" podcast discovers, it's complicated...
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January 15, 2018
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Anaphora
Seen|Read|Heard , Rhetorical Devices , Public Speaking
It's hard not to think about public speaking and this rhetorical device when we remember and honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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January 5, 2018
Speaking in Public: A Grab Bag of Tips
Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Speaker's Bookshelf , Public Speaking Books , 30th Anniversary , Instruction , Resources , Speaking in Public
Reid Buckley launched our school with the Executive Seminar and his first book on speaking. As we mark our 30th anniversary, we're publishing excerpts from "Speaking in Public" each month, starting with his infamous guide to color-coding....
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January 4, 2018
Speaking to Lead: Recall what moves you
Public Speaking Fear , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips
She wasn't much of a talker until her job demanded it. Here's how Olympian and once-shy public speaker Dawn Staley finds her voice and how the same technique can help you...
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January 2, 2018
Public Speaking in 2018: Calendar of Classes
Public Speaking , Instruction , The Buckley Experience , School News
Our public speaking and presentation skills course schedule, with new programs for Buckley School alum....
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December 14, 2017
Star Wars and the Force of Simple Words
Seen|Read|Heard , Instruction , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
Does the power of Star Wars lie in its use of simple words? Can you channel that force to improve your writing and speaking? Here's what your dictionary is telling you....
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December 11, 2017
Rhetorical Device of the Month: Paralipsis
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Faculty , Rhetorical Devices
It's the rhetorical device that let's you be naughty AND nice...and it happens to be a Donald J. Trump favorite...
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December 5, 2017
Sheepish Speaker Overcomes Nerves
Public Speaking Fear , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Just For Fun
Two secrets for conquering public speaking nerves that New Zealand's champion sheep judges learn--and you can use them, too.
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November 22, 2017
With Gratitude: Thoughts on saying thanks in your next speech
Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Instruction , Etiquette
Audiences appreciate a courteous speaker, but what's the secret to conveying genuine gratitude? Our ideas about the best ways to say thank you in a speech...
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November 20, 2017
Public Speaking Fears: Make A Game Plan
Public Speaking Fear , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking
How public speaking tripped him up and what you can learn from Duke's Grayson Allen about handling your nerves...
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October 23, 2017
Memory tips to spark your public speaking
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips
Turns out the techniques that improve recall look a lot like the ones we use to help public speakers make their presentations memorable...
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October 10, 2017
Astronaut's POV: Images, Stories from Space
Alumni , Public Speaking , Travel , Storytelling
When you have dozens of out of this world stories to tell, how do you choose? That's the challenge for Astronaut Terry Virts...
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September 30, 2017
December Session Added to Course Calendar
Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Instruction
If presentation skills training is on your 2017 to-do list, we've got just the public speaking seminar for you....
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September 12, 2017
Help a Speaker Out
Public Speaking , Three Things , Presentation Tips
Buckley School director Karen Kalutz says you can make the world a friendlier place for every speaker (including yourself) in three easy steps.
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August 28, 2017
The Dream Speech: 54 Years Ago Today
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Significant Speeches , Great Speeches , On This Day
Fifty-four years ago on this day, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered "I Have a Dream" on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial. Everyone claims to know this speech...but do they really?
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August 14, 2017
Teaching Science to Teens: Lessons for any presentation
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , Resources
When our faculty Jenny Maxwell heard an NPR feature about teaching science, the discoveries sounded a lot like a Buckley primer for good public speaking....
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August 1, 2017
A Poem to Read Aloud: Phillis Wheatley
Resources , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud , Public Speaking
In August 1761, seven-year-old Phillis Wheatley was purchased as a slave in Boston. She became one of the most renowned poets of her time. Her "Hymn to the Evening" is this month's read aloud.
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July 5, 2017
70th Anniversary for a Barrier Breaker
Welcome to Camden , Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Seventy years ago on this day, Camden's Larry Doby became the American League's first African-American baseball player. We take note of his speeches, courage, and poise under pressure...
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July 1, 2017
Kid's-Eye View of Long Summer Days: July's Read-Aloud
Resources , Public Speaking , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud
For your poetry practice, we offer lines from Robert Louis Stevenson that remind us of a summer week we spent leading a workshop in Anchorage, Alaska. (And we like this portrait of RLS, painted by John Singer Sargent.)
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June 28, 2017
Speaking of Tech Careers and Innovation
Public Speaking , Alumni
Per Scholas is winning widespread recognition for its ability to open new career opportunities. Here's how Chief Administrative Officer Michelle Pullaro tells that story...
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June 22, 2017
Speaker’s Best Friend: Talk to the Dog
Faculty , Seen|Read|Heard , Just For Fun , Resources , Public Speaking
Inspired by American University's "audience dogs," our Buckley staff evaluate the benefits of practicing speeches with their canines.
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June 1, 2017
Summer Rain: A read-aloud poem for June
Public Speaking , Resources , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud
She smoked cigars, won the Pulitzer Prize, and took issue with South Carolina's "obscene" shades of magenta: Amy Lowell is the poet for this month's verse to read out loud.
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June 1, 2017
From Acting Class to Public Speaking
Three Things , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking , Faculty
What can a middle school acting class teach us about public speaking? Buckley Coach Emily Padgett has a few ideas....
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May 26, 2017
'Oratory is alive and well'
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
On May 19, the mayor of New Orleans gave a speech people are still talking about, a reminder of how important and powerful good public speaking can be.
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May 16, 2017
Graduation Speeches, Humor & Personal Experience
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , Storytelling
Brave souls continue to accept the challenge of delivering commencement addresses. See how two secrets to their success can help you with any speaking assignment.
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May 12, 2017
Speaking Inspired by Lincoln
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Presentation Tips , Presidents Day
A tweet from Ford’s Theatre caught our eye: "Today #FordsOratory students head to the Lincoln Memorial to practice giving their speeches in the footsteps of other great orators!" We had to find out more...
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May 2, 2017
VentureMom Encourages Entrepreneurs
Alumni , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips
Helping other entrepreneurs is what Holly Hurd's VentureMom is all about. Holly describes the public speaking and communication skills that help startups succeed.
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May 1, 2017
A Shakespeare Sonnet for May's Read Aloud
Public Speaking , Resources , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud
"Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May," writes William Shakespeare in Sonnet 18. It's our selection for your May read aloud.
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May 1, 2017
Lessons from TED for public speaking
Public Speaking Fear , Public Speaking , Faculty , Three Things , Presentation Tips
How can a TED talk help you improve your public speaking? Buckley faculty Elise Partin gave one--and shares her tips from the experience.
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April 19, 2017
Facilitating Techniques for Speakers
Public Speaking , Faculty , Three Things , Instruction , Presentation Tips
Managing the audience and working toward agreement are two of the skills an expert facilitator will master. Buckley coach Katie Pope shares how her experiences as a facilitator can help your next presentation.
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April 14, 2017
The Scoop on Public Speaking: About that Lectern
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard , Just For Fun , Presentation Tips
Bernie Sanders speaking from a pint of Ben & Jerry's has us thinking about some of the crazy things people believe about using lecterns--and the advice we give.
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April 11, 2017
Poems in your Pockets & Verse for Every Month
Resources , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Just For Fun , The Buckley Experience , Poems to Read Aloud
Years before there was National Poetry Month, The Buckley School was encouraging students of speaking to read poems aloud. Here's a little more about how you should and--with some help from Bill Murray--why it can even be fun.
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April 4, 2017
Accent for...the win?
Public Speaking , Vocal Delivery , Seen|Read|Heard , Instruction , Just For Fun
"Do I need to change my accent?" It’s a question Buckley faculty are asked all the time. If you listen to this year’s NCAA national basketball champs, you'll hear why our answer is “no.”
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April 3, 2017
A Great Speaker Gets His Day
Public Speaking , Faculty , Presentation Tips , Resources , Public Speaking Books
Our memories of Winston Churchill, the leader, are tied to those of Churchill, the speaker. While April 9 is his "day," Buckley director Karen Kalutz says there are lessons to use from his speaking all the time.
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April 1, 2017
Lessons from Coaching Youth Debate
Public Speaking , Faculty , Three Things , Instruction , Presentation Tips
"Speaking is like sports. It's all about muscle memory," says Buckley faculty Jana Daley, who volunteers as a high school debate team coach. She shares three things she's learned that can help any speaker.
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March 23, 2017
Speaking of March Madness
Public Speaking , Faculty , Just For Fun , Seen|Read|Heard
March Madness--yes, we have it at The Buckley School. And when it comes to winning and losing this year, you might even say "this time, it's personal."
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March 20, 2017
The Inaugural Chaplain: Barry Black
Public Speaking , Alumni , Presidents Day
Maybe you heard his rousing speech at the National Prayer Breakfast or marveled at his resonant voice during the Inauguration Prayer. So did we. And we were fortunate enough to have that same voice echo through our school not that long ago.
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March 15, 2017
Voice for the Amazon
Alumni , Public Speaking
On a trip to the Amazon rainforest, Sarah duPont was horrified by the rapid, widespread destruction she saw. She felt she had to do something. So she enlisted Sissy Spacek, Herbie Hancock and a team of journalists and environmentalists to sound the alarm.
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January 24, 2017
Little Speaker, Big Presence
Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
It's hard to beat a speaker who cares about her message and throws herself into delivering it--as demonstrated by eight-year-old "book girl" Madison.
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January 23, 2017
Longest Speech--Ever!
Just For Fun , Seen|Read|Heard , Public Speaking
You may think you've endured the world's longest speech--but chances are you haven't. Because this guy set a record for speaking more than 53 hours. And there's something we can learn from that.
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January 9, 2017
Make Yourself Bigger?
Resources , Public Speaking , Presentation Tips , Public Speaking Fear
We know audiences read body language. But what signals are you sending yourself with how you use your body? In one of the most popular TED talks of all time, Amy Cuddy explores how you can change your mindset by making yourself bigger.
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January 3, 2017
Descriptive Gestures and the Next U.S. President
Gestures & Body Language , Public Speaking , Just For Fun
How many descriptive gestures do you use in a speech? Bloomberg Politics tracked a speech by Donald Trump and documented more than 70 different gestures. Take a look at what they found.
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December 15, 2016
Lessons All Around You
Public Speaking , Seen|Read|Heard
Columbia University professor Christopher Edmin wants teachers to better engage students--and his observations and techniques translate to every kind of communication.
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December 1, 2016
An app for that? Um...
Public Speaking , Resources , Seen|Read|Heard
Ummo is an iPhone app released by a team of MIT and Harvard students. It promises to track your ums, likes and you knows, to help you get rid of them. At The Buckley School, we’ve long had an app for that, and if you've attended our Executive Seminar, you may, um, know what we mean.
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