Archive for March, 2008

DIY: lie detecting at home

Does it work? Well, it has some pretty accurate readings so far.. Try it for yourself and see:
RealScoop uses “proven voice analysis technology to analyze statements made by public figures. The believability meter analyzes each celebrity video second by second, displaying the real-time results in a color-coded manner from left to right. The most believable statements are green, gradually turning red as they become more questionable.”

Thanks to Jon Koifman for bringing this study to our attention

Do you have charisma?

A few quick charisma tips “on air” by your favourite charisma coach! Olivia “on air” on Mike Caruther’s  “Something you should know” :
Segment 1 and Segment 2

How to present like Steve

An excellent article by Carmine Gallo condenses “the 10 elements that you can combine to dazzle your own audience”– a few excerpts here:

1. Set the theme. “There is something in the air today.” With those words, Jobs opened Macworld. Last year, it was: “Today Apple reinvents the phone.” Once you identify your theme, make sure you deliver it several times throughout your presentation.

2. Demonstrate enthusiasm. If you are not enthusiastic about your own products or services, how do you expect your audience to be?

3. Provide an outline. Jobs outlined the presentation by saying, “There are four things I want to talk about today. So let’s get started…” Make lists and provide your audience with guideposts along the way.

4. Make numbers meaningful. Jobs pointed out that Apple’s market share equals the share of its top three competitors combined. Numbers don’t mean much unless they are placed in context. Connect the dots for your listeners.

5. Try for an unforgettable moment–Jobs drew cheers by opening a manila interoffice envelope and holding the laptop for everyone to see.

6. Create visual slides. There is very little text on a Steve Jobs slide. Most of the slides simply show one image. For example, his phrase “The first thing I want to talk to you about today…” was accompanied by a slide with the numeral 1. That’s it. Just the number. When Jobs discussed a specific product like the iPhone, the audience saw a slide with an image of the product.

7. Give ‘em a show. Jobs includes video clips, demonstrations, and guests he shares the stage with.

8. Don’t sweat the small stuff. Despite your best preparation, something might go wrong as it did during the keynote. Few will remember a glitch unless you call attention to it.

9. Sell the benefit. Your listeners are always asking themselves, “What’s in it for me?” Answer the question. Don’t make them guess. Clearly state the benefit of every service, feature, or product.

10. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. Apple employees say Jobs rehearses the entire presentation aloud for many hours. Nothing is taken for granted.

Thanks for Guillaume Cabane for bringing this article to our attention