Speaking Tip: We Learn Best When We Laugh

"Shtick" is good!
It makes your audience relax and have fun, and it's been proven that we learn best when we laugh; our defenses are down and our endorphins are running wild. It may not be your style to be outrageous (like moi!), but audiences respond best to presentations with humor, interaction, fun and stimulation for all the senses. And they want content with clear messages that come with specific how-tos that can be readily implemented.
A speaker who sprinkles her speeches with stories will captivate and hold the audience's attention longer than those who just postulate theories.

I Love My Job!

There are so many perks for what I do, but the best is when I receive awesome letters like this from my clients. See why I love my job?

Hi Mikki, 
Well it's been 3 months since you left us awestruck at our national sales meeting and people are still talking, laughing and reminiscing about your presentation and workshops.  I have been in this industry for 26 years and have been to countless sales meetings and I truly can't recall a speaker who in such a short time, could have the immediate and lasting impact that you had.  I think people are still singing  “oh Mikki you’re so fine, you’re so fine you blow my mind, hey Mikki…hey Mikki!..” to this day! 
It was more than just cracking us all up, which you sure did, but your inspiring stories, valuable lessons and actionable ideas gave us something to learn from and sink our teeth into.  I heard from so many of our top producers that your workshops were the best they've ever attended.  Boy,  I never knew there were so many synonyms for “fantastic” until I read the reviews from your sessions. 
Selecting a main stage speaker can always be a bit stressful,  as the success and mood of the meeting can be greatly influenced by the enjoyment and perceived value from the audience.  Thank you for making us look so smart for inviting you to our meeting, and for making our producers so happy they came!   Your talk catapulted our morning and  set the stage for the rest of the conference to be a smash.  I’ve told everyone  that if they are looking to excite, encourage, inspire, and crack up their attendees at their next conference….then look no further, just “Slip ‘em a Mikki”!! 
Thank you! 
Lisa

Michael Bay...I Can Help You

My heart goes out to Michael Bay.

If you haven't seen or heard about his meltdown when he was giving a speech at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, check it out: 

Michael Bay leaves CES 2014 in Vegas

I was interviewed for Quartz Magazine for an article on the subject...check it out HERE

Public speaking isn't easy. And Michael Bay is a behind-the-scenes kind of guy, a director, so he was counting on that teleprompter. As can happen, technology failed and he didn't know what the hell to do. So he walked off the stage.

It can happen to anyone. It's not that it happens that's the problem, it's not knowing what to do about it.

One of the topics I cover in my Speakers Schools is how to handle a situation like that; what to do if you forget what you were going to say, how to ad-lib, how to get the audience on your side, how to overcome your nerves...all the things that happen to us when we least expect it.

So, to Michael Bay, and anyone else who needs some help,

 REGISTER NOW for April 24-26, 2014.

Sorry, the February school is sold out but there's still time to register for the next school in April. 

You'll have to hurry, though...there are only TWO SPOTS AVAILABLE.

NOTE: If the April school fills up and we have enough interest we will add another Speakers School on July 24-26, 2014 (in addition to the three per year we already have), so please send us an email if you're interested.samantha@mikkiwilliams.com or mikki@mikkiwilliams.com.

Learn from a pro...one of the newest members inducted into the 

CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame:

Mikki Williams, CSP, CPAE.

 CPAE is a lifetime award for speaking excellence. 

Fewer than 1% of all professional speakers hold both designations.

 REGISTER HERE!  

Speakers School is for business people, executives, coaches, sales people, administrators, teachers, etc. It's for anyone who wants to feel more comfortable when presenting and to learn how to craft THE most impactful speech, whether it'a a one-on-one situation or in front of a crowd. Learn tips from one of the country's leading professional speakers. 

If your goal is to be a professional speaker, then Speakers School will get you started, and if you're already a pro it will help you go to the next level...fast.

Five Tips To Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Have I told you how much I love Catalyst Ranch? It's a wildly creative space, so outrageous you might think I designed it! If you're looking for a location for your next meeting or seminar or retreat or party...and you want a place that will stimulate your creative juices, check out the Ranch.
A couple weeks ago I did my presentation Speak Loudly and Carry a Big Shtick!TM there and it was awesome. That presentation is on how to become a better speaker, and Lauren Smith wrote about it on Catalyst Ranch's blog. Check it out...I couldn't have said it better myself!

5 Presentation Tips I Learned From Mikki by Lauren Smith
She’s motivational, charming, sensational, inspirational, humorous and, she gave her latest presentation at Catalyst Ranch wearing a skirt made out of balloons. Really, the whole thing! I’ve seen a lot of wacky stuff in my time here but a balloon dress was a first. Mikki Williams is a lady with eclectic tastes and she has channeled her flamboyant style and infectious energy into award winning presentations. This summer, Mikki was inducted into the National Speakers Association Hall of Fame, an achievement attained by fewer than 1% of all professional speakers. Catalyst Ranch is very lucky to have Mikki Williams present not one, but three of her signature presentations. Last week I attended “Speak Loudly and Carry a Big Shtick!” and learned many new tricks that I will incorporate into my next presentation.
READ THE TEST OF THE ARTICLE

Speaker Hall of Fame: The Thrill of a Lifetime!

Last week I received the greatest honor of my career: I was inducted into the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame at my National Speakers Association Convention in Philadelphia.

You probably don't know what that is so here's a little explanation:
In February 1977, National Speakers Association (NSA) established the Council of Peers Award for Excellence Speaker Hall of Fame to honor professional speakers who have reached the top echelon of platform excellence.
To date, only 196 men and women have been inducted into the CPAE Speaker Hall of Fame, including Zig Ziglar, Ronald Reagan and Norman Vincent Peale.
Each candidate must excel in seven categories: material, style, experience, delivery, image, professionalism and communication. 
See why I'm so excited? It's the top honor in my industry and I am thrilled beyond words.
So now I am: Mikki Williams, CSP, CPAE!
Not to brag, but fewer than 1% of all professional speakers hold both of those designations.
Yay!!
Thank you, thank you to my fellow speakers for this awesome honor!

Invest in Your Speaking Career | Speaker's School September 26-28

Speakers School is coming up on September 26-28, 2013.   REGISTER NOW!   Speakers School is for business people, executives, coaches, sales people, administrators, teachers, etc. It's for anyone who wants to feel more comfortable when presenting and to learn how to craft THE most impactful speech, whether it'a a one-on-one situation or in front of a crowd. Learn tips from one of the country's leading professional speakers.  If your goal is to be a professional speaker, then Speakers School will get you started, and if you're already a pro it will help you go to the next level...fast. A few of the MANY things you'll learn:  Insuring that your program is one people will want to hear   Turning your life experiences into a presentation   Engaging your audience   How to be "you-nique" and make money at it   Using humor in your message   How to get great reviews   How to book more presentations Mikki Williams, CSP (Certified Speaking Professional) has been speaking professionally for over twenty-five years. She's ready to share her secrets and equip you with tools you need to be a relaxed and effective presenter.  REGISTER NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT! EMAIL US NOW for more information on our NEW, CONVENIENT PAYMENT PLAN!
"Professional Speaking is both a science and a craft. Mikki has mastered both and has a unique ability to help support and develop others in their quest to do the same. I have been a professional speaker for several years. While my career has been met with relative success, I recently attended one of Mikki's Speaker School programs and it has brought my presentations to an entirely new level. Even though the program is offered in a group format, Mikki makes time for each student to get his/her specific questions answered and ensures each one takes with him/her exactly what s/he need when s/he need it. She does so masterfully and truly meets her students where they are. Hers is a program I will surely attend again in the future. It is rare to find a professional at her level who is so willing to share her experience with such candor and openness. She is a pleasure to work with and I highly recommend her Speaker School for both new and seasoned speakers alike."  Gustavo Grodnitzky  5-star Vistage Speaker And don't forget to check out  Now, there are three divisions - one is sure to suit your needs. CLICK HERE for more information.  Call or email if you have any questions: 312.664.8447  samantha@mikkiwilliams.com     www.mikkiwilliams.com

A Special Event at Catalyst Ranch | Monday June 3rd, 2013

You're invited  to a very special event!

Many innovative companies have come to realize that the results of any offsite meeting can be enhanced if attendees are placed in the right environment. That's why they come to Catalyst Ranch for training seminars, strategic planning meetings, trade conferences, association meetings, workshops, consumer market research/focus groups, staff retreats, board meetings, sales meetings, as well as ideation and brainstorming sessions. Located in downtown Chicago, Catalyst Ranch is 15,000 sq. feet of absolute inspiration.  Click the logo for program details  Catalyst Ranch    is having a very special series of events starring...ME! Please join us for the first one on June 3, 2013. CLICK HERE to register  Date: Monday, June 3, 2013 - 6:00pm - 8:30 pm Location: Catalyst Ranch, 656 W. Randolph St., Chicago Cost: $30 light refreshments will be provided CLICK HERE to register Catalyst Ranch is an outrageous place (so you know I love it!). It's a creative meeting and events space that delights your senses and sparks your imagination.  You have to see it! And here's the perfect opportunity: I'll be doing a series of three presentations there (OPEN TO THE PUBLIC) beginning June 3rd, and then again in September and February. I hope you'll be able to come.  Put it on your calendar now:  June 3, 2013, September 9, 2013 and February 10, 2014.

Speakers School - Get the Benefit of My 25 years!

Speaker's School - Make an investment into your speaking career that will last a lifetime!

What a great class!

Speakers School Feb 2013 had attendees from the three Cs:  Canada, Colorado and Chicago - a mixture of CEOs, employees of an architectural firm, professional speakers, educators and salespeople.
 

Day one concentrated on the craft of speaking - that's where I share the skills I've acquired over my 25 year career. 

Day two is all video coaching - attendees practice what they learned and get coaching and feedback. Day three is all about how to get booked as a speaker and/or build a career.
 

Attendee Peter Christman wrote, "The best and most "real world" training I have ever been to in my 50 years in business. Mikki is truly a professional with an equally professional training program. She gives new meaning toe the word "professional."

Next Speakers School is April 11-13th with the addition of a Saturday afternoon session with social media guru,  Dave Nelsen from Pittsburgh (he's also Vistage Speaker of the Year). 

Any questions about Speakers School, one-on-one coaching or The Mikki Mouth Club? Just ask! Contact me on my website or Register Now!

Join THE MIKKI MOUTH CLUB!!! | Presentation Skills Coaching

  

How would you like to have one of the country's top professional speakers as your own personal presentation skills coach?

 

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Join before January and save the $50.00 initiation fee. For only $47.00 a month you 

can have Mikki as your speech coach!

If you want Mikki's expertise at an affordable price on an ongoing basis, this membership is for you. Join The Mikki Mouth Club, a monthly tele-coaching membership. In addition to your annual membership you'll receive a 10% discount on Speakers School and all products in the EXCESSories line...and more benefits to come.

We all have to give presentations, whether it's for sales, client/association meetings, roasts, toasts, your kid's wedding...so join this tele-coaching series to learn all aspects of how to deliver knock-your-stilettos-off presentations.

  

Who is Mikki Williams, CSP?

• Chosen as one of the best speakers by Meetings and Convention Magazine along with Tony Robbins, Bill Gates, Rudy Giuliani, Colin Powell, Lou Holtz, Zig Ziglar, Mike Ditka, Jay Leno...
• A certified speaking professional (only 600 worldwide)
• A 25 year veteran of the speaking industry
• Winner of the Golden Mike Award
• Featured on the cover of  Speaker, the national trade publication of the National Speakers Association
• She has spoken twice at The White House and also at President Mandela's South African home
• She has spoken to over 1,000,000 people in seventeen different countries on every continent except Antarctica
• One of the top tier speaker resources for Vistage International, the world's leading executive organization
• Author, enthusiologist, coach, consultant, inspirational humorista, life architect, multipreneur, radio and TV personality, and mensch

 JOIN THE MIKKI MOUTH CLUB NOW!

Call us today at 312.664.8447 or send an email to sign up!

Why You Should Come To Speakers School | Video

A few of the many reasons you should come to the next session of my Speaker's School in Chicago

Speakers School is coming up September 26-28. Anyone who gives presentations - sales people, CEOs, educators... can benefit. Here are a few of the many reasons you should attend and make an investment into your speaking career that will last a lifetime!

Get more details on my website or register now to reserve your spot, space is limited!

Rick Perry's Speaking Gaffe

Dear Rick Perry,

Come to my Speakers School (as my guest) and I'll teach you techniques that'll help you remember your speaking points.
xoxo,
Mikki

The content of this publication does not necessarily reflect the political views of the author.

REGISTER NOW TO RESERVE YOUR SPOT for Speakers School with Rick Perry!

Thank you, Country Bank!

It was a mutual love affair!

Quotation 9 from Mikki Mouth

If you'd like a copy of my quotation book, Mikki Mouth, click here!

The Bicycle Benefit

One of the points in my signature keynote is entitled The Bicycle Benefit because of what it implies. I believe that continuous learning is an integral part of a healthy work life balance. It rattles me when people say they don't have the time. In my humble opinion, there is no such thing as "time management," it is "choice management." You choose to sleep in or you choose to get up and work out. You choose to go to bed or you choose to stay up and read. You choose to go to work on the weekend or you choose to stay home and play with your kids. Last time I checked we all had the same 24 hours, so we choose how we spend it. That's not meant to be a statement of judgment but one of reality.

Auntie Mame said in the Broadway show, "Life is a banquet and most poor son of a guns are starving to death." When are you going to pull your seat up to the table? Balance is about mind as well as body, how many books have you read lately, how many DVDs have you watched, CDs listened to, seminars enrolled in, trips taken, hobbies pursued...?

The Bicycle Benefit: "Life is like a 10-speed bicycle and some of us have gears we've never used."

I Love My Audience!

Dana Borowka, Lighthouse Consulting Services, has seen me SIX times and is still getting something from my presentation! That's truly what it's all about for me. Thanks you, Dana, for the kind words.

He Who Laughs...Lasts

I recently gave this program to a large retailer. We all know how hard the retail industry has been hit in this economic downturn, but the executive team had the vision to realize a program like this was timely and would help boost morale. The value of humor in the workplace is never more evident than when you suddenly realize you're not having fun, not laughing very often and not feeling energized enough to manage your business and personal life (if you still have one). What you need is a little stress management, a little humor perspective. What you need is some inspiration and self-development that can enhance productivity. I showed my audience that it's PWP (possible without pills)!
Positive thinking is to welcome each day with interest and curiosity, as a new adventure. It is seeing opportunity in every situation and identifying with others' positive characteristics to find them interesting. It is to be conscious of an expanding dimension of life, realizing that the greatest achievement of human spirit is to make the most of one's resources. Such thoughts, held in the mind, become attitudes. And attitudes infallibly shape one's life. So life itself really is - an attitude!
 Most of us suffer from childhood programming, negative thinking, common failure patterns that seem impossible to overcome. The good news is that you can break out of these molds to repeatedly create success by changing the way your mind is programmed. Through the use of humor, you can enhance relationships, relieve stress, deal with change and become more productive. I worked with my client to give them a perspective of opportunity rather than one of obstacles. Humor is the great diffuser, the great equalizer. The best way to gain control of your life is with “humor resources.” So come to your “senses of humor.”

To Be or Not to Be...

The challenge is that most of us are human "doings" instead of human "beings"...myself included. BUT, in this never ending quest for quality of life, I continually do things that will contribute to that state of "being." Yes, I do affirmations in the morning and prayer at night. I listen to music as much as possible, thank you Pandora:-) I walk and take in the beauty of nature. I make time for friends and fun. What do you do on a conscious level to achieve that balance for you?

Quotation 7 from Mikki Mouth

Mikki Williams Quote 4

Another quotation from Mikki Williams.

Topic - Only Wet Babies Like Change

"Change is inevitable, growth is optional." When there is change, when new information comes along and circumstances transform as they now do at lightning speed, it is no longer possible to apply yesterday's solutions to today's problems. It is critical to find new answers, solutions and ideas. Since the start of the millennium we have seen rapid shifts and transitions, and those who thrive - not just survive - are those who are fully equipped to manage these changes. This program is not designed to analyze where the sophisticated technology of the future will take us nor how we are governed, nor what is happening globally, nor the changes that are taking place in the American social structure. It is designed to study the dynamics of how we adapt to change and how we can leverage the challenges, means and methods to better our lives.
How do you deal with change? Are you frisky risky (I couldn't resistIndy500) or a risk runaway?? Do you embrace it, inspire it, run from it, freeze with inertia? In this program I use real life stories to explore the dynamics of change and how to make it a catalyst for life improvement.
Just for the sake of change make an effort to introduce yourself to three strangers this week. They could be in the supermarket line or at the airport, or change the route you take to work or try a new food. Just do it!!!
For more information visit us at
http://www.mikkiwilliams.com