Thursday Buzz: Make Your Next Speech More Memorable

You have likely heard hundreds of speakers in your association career, but I’d guess that only a few stand out in your memory. How can you make sure your next public speech leaves a lasting impression?

If you’re looking to up your speaking game, check out the practical advice from 360 Live Media  (opens in a new tab).

Start by making sure you know as much as possible about your topic before you begin writing your speech. Knowing you have all the facts will help you speak with accuracy and certainty.

You already know that practice makes perfect, but try walking around while memorizing your speech. “You’ll find a rhythm of delivery that flows not just in your voice, but in your body,” writes strategy and content director Bill Zimmer. “This allows you to let go of any closed-off body language such as putting your hands in your pockets and keeps you grounded in your movements and stance.”

Zimmer goes on to suggest making your speech personal by sharing your experiences with your audience. “First, it gives them the right amount of encouragement they need to focus to keep going,” he says. “Second, it allows them to put their confidence in me, which makes them more willing to heed my advice on a solution to their problems.”

Losing an Iconic Figure

The Internet lost a hero today. EFF is mourning the loss of our visionary co-founder, John Perry Barlow. https://t.co/oaf7hgKsOL  (opens in a new tab)

— EFF (@EFF) February 7, 2018  (opens in a new tab)

Yesterday, the online community lost a true visionary. Internet pioneer John Perry Barlow, who cofounded the Electronic Frontier Foundation, died at age 70.

EFF announced Barlow’s death  (opens in a new tab) in a blog post. “It is no exaggeration to say that major parts of the internet we all know and love today exist and thrive because of Barlow’s vision and leadership,” says the post. “He always saw the internet as a fundamental place of freedom, where voices long silenced can find an audience and people can connect with others regardless of physical distance.”

Beyond Barlow’s role with EFF, he had one of the more interesting resumes of any leader. A Wyoming cattle rancher, he was known for his idiosyncratic take on politics. Additionally, he’s known among music fans for writing a number of songs for the Grateful Dead.

Other Links of Note

A recent report indicates that the nonprofit sector is in financial trouble. Here are several tips for improving the financial health of your organization  (opens in a new tab) from the Bloomerang blog.

Should you continue to reach out to lapsed donors? Future Fundraising Now shares a good direct mail outreach example  (opens in a new tab) and a few thoughts.

Hashtags are an important component of many nonprofit campaigns. Social Media Examiner details seven tools to keep up with them  (opens in a new tab).

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