Why do they call you the “Speech Fixer”?

When my clients have a speech or presentation that does not seem to be working the way they intended, they call me to figure out what the problem might be. I then use my coaching toolbox to evaluate all aspects of the speech including areas such as speech structure analysis, storytelling, speech flow, speaker verbiage and body language. After figuring out the potential problem, we work on fixing it.

So how does someone work with you?

Well it starts off with one initial conversation to find out exactly where people are when it comes to public speaking and their stories. Most people have tremendous fear around public speaking and they tend to be their own worst critic. So what we do is just have a conversation to figure out what they would like to accomplish and then we can determine how I may be able to help you and serve you. After that conversation, then we can get started.

Okay – so do you work with people in-person or do you work with them over the phone?

Yes to both! Our initial conversation and coaching sessions would ideally be in person but they can be done over the phone or through the internet via services like Skype, Google Hangout or Oovoo. I have now clients that I’ve coached in the UK, Canada, various parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

Do you have to hear the person or can they just send you a written request with their wishes?

They can send me an email with the information they wish to share but I still do request a conversation with them afterwards. It is so that I get a good idea of the person’s energy, spirit and personality. The true essence of a person sometimes does not always accurately come across in written communication. The initial conversation could be anywhere from five to thirty minutes

Then what happens?

When we decide whether my services and your desires would be a good fit, I will give recommendations on how many sessions might be needed to achieve your end result. My successful clients typically start with three 90 minute sessions and then we go from there.

What’s a typical session with you like? Do you read what they think they’ll talk about first and then go over it or do you just listen to listen to their delivery and work on editing it?

Yes to both. Many of my clients are more comfortable with the written word, so they do type up a transcript and then send it to me. And that’s great because it provides an overall template to work from. However, unless we are working on a speech that has to be read, chances are that we will change most of it so that it can be more conversational and impactful when delivered. We can edit without the written transcript and we will develop a minimum of a written outline to confirm the flow of the speech.

How do you arrive at your pricing?

It really does depend on what your end result is going to be. If you’re relatively new to speaking and storytelling then your process will be longer than someone who’s been speaking for years and just needs tweaking here and there. I have different options available from three sessions to being kept on retainer for up to 6 months.

What is the biggest transformation your clients have received?

I’d say an overall increase in self-confidence. Most people initially come to me scared to speak or they’re afraid that they don’t have anything important to say. Once we build their skills in storytelling and effective speech delivery, their confidence grows in many other aspects of their lives.

What do you think is the most important communication skill to have? Is verbal timing? Is it your body movements in conjunction with how you communicate?

I am not sure whether one skill is more important than the other – they all work together.
I believe actually the most effective communication comes from within. I love to work with clients from the inside out to erase their insecurities because it does affect the way they deliver the speech. One you have confidence then the verbal aspects of the speech and body language flow together.

Is there any type of person you don’t like to work with?

Yes. To be honest, somebody who’s not willing to change. Let’s face it, if you want to improve, you got to change something. There is an old classic saying, “If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re going to keep getting what you’re getting!” I firmly believe you need to be willing and open to feedback, both positive and constructive. If you don’t practice what you have learned and put if to good use, then I believe that the whole coaching may be a waste of your time and money.