What does it take to be compelling? To compel means to bring about something forcefully, but to be compelling has a much more desirable connotation. Synonyms include being persuasive, convincing, and irresistible. These are qualities that bring about a desired result without external pressure. Rather than being coerced into thinking, feeling, or doing a certain thing, a compelling message inspires us via internal motivators. The message is irresistible. It is compelling. As c

How well do you remember something? Research shows that over time, not so well. This phenomenon was described by Hermann Ebbinghaus in the 1880’s as the “Forgetting Curve.” This evolved into a u-shaped curve called the “serial position memory curve” based on research which showed we are able to recall what is presented first or last more than what is in the middle.(1) Being able to recall what is presented first is called the primacy effect, and recalling what is presented l

Presentation skills are essential in today’s workplaces, organizations, and via digital channels. Whether you present in person or online, the ability to deliver content clearly and compellingly is vital for success. Our 11th tip series covers 5 tips for achieving presentation excellence. You can download a free copy here: https://www.nutritioncommunicator.com/tip-sheets Whether your presentations are for lay or professional audiences, these same principles apply: Tip #1

You’ve heard that networking leads to landing a coveted job. What else leads to landing a job? Or getting asked to complete a project? Or having your work supported? Answer: Doing your work well. Nothing beats a good reputation supported by excellence in what you do. Do good work. When I was introduced last week before a presentation for the Ohio Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics it struck me that I was standing there because the person introducing me, Sharon Doughten, RDN,

What draws you in to pay attention to a speaker or keep reading a blog post? Effective openings arouse your attention by appealing to your senses – visual and auditory stimulation – and your curiosity – you are going to learn something of value. A key point in the upcoming Academy Nutrition Communication book's chapter on effective openings and closings states: “… a strong opening captures the audience’s attention and sets the stage for what follows.” When I think of effectiv

One of the main benefits of building presentation skills is enhanced confidence, which in turn enhances your effectiveness as a speaker. The confident speaker is considered trustworthy, believable, and persuasive. How do speakers demonstrate confidence? Confidence is expressed through the tone of a speaker’s voice, its intensity – not too soft; its pitch – not too high; its speed – not too slow; and its variation – a voice that is not monotonous but varied and interesting. Co

What does “connection” with an audience mean to you? That they aren’t asleep or playing video games on their phone? True connection implies that the presenter and the audience are experiencing shared thoughts and feelings. When an audience feels a connection with the communicator, when they believe the communicator understands how they feel and is aware of their beliefs and desires, they’re motivated to pay attention, to engage, and ultimately are more likely to take action.

Successful communication creates a sharing of ideas and feelings between the communicator and the audience. It results in an audience that attends to, engages with, and takes action on a message to achieve desired outcomes. Strategic communication design begins and ends with the audience. A communicator who knows their audience is able to design communication that accounts for what the audience already knows, what they do, and what they care about. Successful communication re

Effective nutrition communication is not an accident, but is strategically designed. It is the result of making a plan, working the plan, and evaluating the entire process and outcomes. “Lucky breaks” do happen, most often when hard work and preparation meet opportunity. Nutrition communicators who appear successful simply “throwing something together” at the last minute, have likely been in the trenches for the long haul, learning from mistakes and honing their craft. Well-d