On My Bookshelf
by Marion E Gold

In recent weeks, I've been corresponding with the 25 plus authors who signed-on to exhibit at IWPA's November 19 Book Fair. Each author will be invited to the stage to give a five-minute "promo" to the public. For some, this is an overwhelming experience - a daunting task for those who never presented a "live" pitch before. A heart-pounding moment, even for experienced speakers. Think about it: A room full of strangers. People walking in and out, sipping coffee and munching on sandwiches. A room full of colleagues, other authors, each one a competitor eager to sell books. Five minutes is a long, long time - and it will be within the critical first minute that the audience will decide if they want to listen to the next four minutes.

Have your palms started to sweat, just thinking about it? Are the non-authors in IWPA giving a silent "thanks" they don't have to give a presentation? Well, before you give that sigh of relief, think again. Whether it's a job interview, an office meeting, introducing yourself before an IWPA lunch group, or calling an editor to follow-up on an article query - You are on-stage and in the spotlight.

At some point in our lives and careers, each one of us experiences tough situations or awkward moments. Times when we are nervous or wish we could communicate better.

Who hasn't wondered: Do I talk too fast? Too slowly? Is my voice too nasal? During a meeting, do ever think: How do I excuse myself to go to the restroom? Why does someone else always say what I was going to say? What if someone asks me a question I can't answer? What if I forget someone's name? What if I dribble salad dressing on my shirt in front of clients? Why do people always interrupt me? Why doesn't anyone ever listen to me? Am I a good listener? The editor told me to call, but now she doesn't remember who I am! People think I'm standoffish, but I'm really shy.

Regardless of your profession, background, or level of experience, "Smart Speaking" provides an abundance of "60-Second Strategies" that will help you become more confident and a more effective communicator. That's why Laurie Schloff and Marcia Yudkin's book is On My Bookshelf.

The long title of this book belies the quick and terrific tips inside. I especially like the chapters that deal with one-on-one conversation tips. For example, the section on "Conversational Blocks" addresses such common problems as how to change the subject, how to break into a group of people talking, or how to tell if someone wants to talk to you. The authors refer to the latter scenario as "Receptivity Signals." Another section focuses on "Awkward Moments" - like when you're asked a personal or prying question, or realize you've stuck your foot in your mouth.

Are you uncomfortable with "Small Talk?" Not everyone is receptive to starting a conversation about serious issues like global pandemics while they're downing crab cakes and chocolate truffles. And, even if they do, an opening statement like, "have some avocado dip - it's delicious," might be a better start than, "I just read that shell fish may be the source of new bacterial disease."

Another section is on "How to End a Conversation," which brings me to the end of this column. Taking the authors' advice, I'll provide you with one positive, and closing thought: "Whenever you improve any aspect of your communications, you're likely to receive more satisfying responses from others."

Marion Gold's award-winning articles on marketing, diversity, career planning and women in the workforce appear in marketing trade journals, and national newspapers and magazines. She is the author of two books: the Personal Publicity Planner: A Guide to Marketing YOU, and TOP COPS: Profiles of Women in Command. Marion is a past-president of the Illinois Woman's Press Association. To learn more about Marion and to read excerpts from her books, log on to: www.brittanypublications.com