For councillors, boards and committees · Perth, Western Australia
The more you say, the less impact you have. This program teaches you to say it clearly, say it briefly and carry the day. It’s part of David’s presentation skills coaching.
“Wise people speak because they have something to say. Fools speak because they have to say something.”
The paradox
We’ve all sat through the speaker who goes on and on. The more they ramble, the more they lose the room. Designed originally for local government elected members, this program is just as valuable for anyone presenting to a board or committee.
Why it matters
In a council meeting you may have three to five minutes to speak. Miss your moment and someone else speaks with more clarity and takes the opportunity. An important item gets pushed back one, two or three months, or dropped altogether.
All your hard work can disappear in an instant.
The hardest question
What you’ll learn
Reframe your message simply, and decide what not to say.
Advanced delivery skills for clear, concise speaking.
A shape that makes your message easy to understand and remember.
Hot-seat coaching that proves short beats long, in the room.
Short is harder than long. As Mark Twain said, “It usually takes me more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech.” There’s a science to it, and that’s where experience saves you time.
Case study · Gettysburg, 19 November 1863
The featured speaker at the dedication of the Gettysburg cemetery was Edward Everett, one of the most famous orators of his day. He spoke for two hours. Abraham Lincoln spoke for about two minutes. Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is the one history remembers.
What people say
“David’s coaching style is clear and concise. I had an almost impossible deadline, but with David’s input and guidance, I got there. The clarity I gained was immense. A good speaking coach makes you accountable, and David did exactly that.”Lesa Hinchliffe · Author, Director Powerhouse Productions
“I was very impressed at how quickly he helped participants craft memorable and effective pitches. Through humour, practical examples and engaging everyone, we all left with valuable skills we can use every day.”Paul Cook · Lawyer, Sherlock Legal
Questions
It was designed for local government councillors and elected members, but it’s equally valuable for anyone presenting to a board or committee with limited time to speak.
Because a clear, focused message is easier to hear and remember. When speakers ramble, they lose the room. Often the more you say, the less impact you have.
Decide what not to say. Reframe your message simply, choose your strongest points, structure them clearly, and practise until you can deliver them with time to spare.
Because every word has to earn its place. Cutting is harder than adding, which is why structure and coaching make such a difference.
Through hot-seat coaching, where you speak, get feedback and try again. It shows in real time how shorter presentations beat longer ones. Available in-house, in Perth, across WA and online.
Yes. The program is built around the three-to-five-minute speaking slots common in council meetings, so your message is heard and carries the day.
Say it once. Say it well.
Let’s talk about your council, board or committee, and the messages you need to land.