Don't Suck on a Straw During Your Speech: And Other Observations from a Public Speaking Coach

Many professionals are good at what they do, but often struggle to explain what they do. Most of us won't be asked to do a TED Talk anytime soon, but we do have to talk to our bosses, peers or clients nearly every day. This booked is designed for busy professionals who want to get back to doing their actual jobs, instead of spending endless hours creating PowerPoint slides about their jobs.

Author Mary Milla has been a public speaking coach for 20 years. She has perfected a fast and practical process for putting speakers, not slides, in charge of their presentations. Her "story first, slides last" preparation method will save you time, sharpen your message and free up time on your calendar for practice.

The book also offers advice on everything from how to stand and gesture to how to give a toast or speak on a panel. Got excuses? Mary's heard them all, and the first part of the book debunks them so readers can focus on becoming the best speaker possible. The book concludes with Mary's "Stupid Company Tricks," detailing all the silly things organizations do to sabotage effective presentations.

If you're a speaking rookie, or a veteran who is in a rut, this book is for you.