Description: The one indispensable skill that leaders must possess is the ability to communicate, the ability to inform, persuade, convert, and compel.  Brent Filson believes that the basis of communication is the speech.  So, he interviewed 51 CEOs of successful companies for techniques on what worked for them in preparing and delivering speeches -- not only speeches to large audiences but also to small groups of people.  He packed the book with lessons learned from interviewing scores of other U.S. executives as well as successful speechwriters and communication specialists.  Furthermore, he detailed techniques that he has personally used over the years as president of a communication consulting firm.

In these pages, you will find:  * 32 ways to begin a speech.  *19 ways to analyze an audience.  * 24 techniques for taking charge in Q & A sessions.  * A tested system for creating a single action idea which can make your speech memorable.  * Proven ways to keep an audience interested through the middle of the speech.  * A sure-fire system for putting humor in your speech.  * 13 ways to control speakers' nerves. 

This book is not meant to be a quick read but a valuable addition to your professional reference library.  It can contribute to your career success for years to come.
Author biography: Brent Filson first learned about leadership as a Marine Corps infantry officer. Since then, he has consulted with many hundreds of leaders in top U.S. businesses, published books and articles on leadership, developed motivational leadership strategies, pro-cesses and skill sets, and created and instituted leadership educational and training programs.  He is the author of more than 20 books.  His leadership books have been featured in more than 200 magazines and newspapers and scores of radio and television shows.  He has lectured at Columbia University, MIT, Boston College, Wake Forest University, Williams College, Villanova, and more.
Review 1: "Brent Filson doesn't just teach you to prepare and deliver a speech.  He inspires you to do it!"
Source of review 1: Duncan Maxwell Anderson, Senior Editor, Success Magazine
Review 2: "There are a lot of books around on speech writing and speech making, but this is special."
Source of review 2: Joseph Cahalan, Director of Communications, Xerox Corporation
Review 3: "No for executives only!  Whatever cause, policy or product you promote, this book can help you succeed."
Source of review 3: Dr. Kathryn Clarenbach, co-founder of NOW