Originally published: London : Vermilion, 2004.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction: audiences are always right -- Part I: The language of public speaking. The battle for audience attention: keeping listeners awake and engaged ; Speaking in private and speaking in public: conversation and public speaking ; The sight and sound of words: differences between writing and speaking ; Part I exercises -- Part II: Visual aids and verbal crutches. Reading from slides and talking with chalk: visuals ancient and modern ; Showing what you mean: visuals for viewers ; Part II exercises -- Part III: Winning with words. The persuasive power of words: the use of rhetorical techniques ; Painting pictures with words: the use of imagery and anecdotes ; Part III exercises -- Part IV: Putting principles into practice. Translating messages to increase impact: political speeches and business presentations ; Putting it all together: structure and preparation ; Unaccustomed as you may be: making social and duty speeches ; Part IV exercises -- Part V: Body language and speech ; Physical facts and fiction: body language, movement and tension ; The power of speech: restoring confidence in the spoken word.