Category: Books

Books about speaking

A few days ago a colleagued asked me for tips about becoming a better speaker.
I immediately had some ideas for books, yet while answering, I also realised I had not yet created such a list on my blog, although I had some ideas.
And then I did what I always do, I ask for help online.
Here is the list that my network and me we came up with.

Book name Author Tip
Confessions of a public Speaker Scott Berkun
Public Speaking for success Dale Carnegie
How to Win Friends and Influence People Dale Carnegie
Presentation Zen Garr Reynolds
TED talks: the official TED guide to public speaking Chris Anderson I bought this book for my daughter when we prepared to talk together at Agile India
Training from the back of the room Sharon Bowman Although more on workshops than on pure talking, yet I learned a lot that I also use in public talks.
Stand up to stand out Marnick Vandebroek Daphné De Troch
the Naked presenter Garr Reynolds Urs Enzler
The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs Carmine Gallo Urs Enzler
Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In Roger Fisher HepCat Jack Speaking for the reason of persuading to make a sale. This is for one on one interaction.
The Game Neil Strauss HepCat Jack for social interaction, how a shy person can approach a group for the purpose of “pickup”. Someone terrified of social interaction can become insentised by practicing cold approaches of groups.
Do You Talk Funny?: 7 Comedy Habits to Become a Better (and Funnier) Public Speaker David Nihill Gien

Yet just like writing a bicycle, this is the kind of thing you learn best by doing.
Use these books to help you to learn what to pay attention, yet please start talking. At home, in front of a mirror, in front of your partner, children and then join a local toastmaster club

oh and I also asked ChatGPT