The annual Ragan Speechwriters Conference was held March 14 – 16, 2012 at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington DC. Over 200 professional speechwriters met for two days and attended a series of main stage keynotes and break out sessions. Unlike other Ragan Conferences I’ve attended, where I had to select a small number of “top [.]. MORE >>

It will surprise most of the people who know me to hear that, according to official measures, I am only slightly extroverted.which is to say, not as extroverted as they think I am. But I know the reality: While I have a bit of an extroversion edge and I do get energized by being around people, I need my alone time, too. Don't. MORE >>

Most suppliers of training claim that the solutions they offer will bring valuable behavioural outcomes. Calling the product “learning” instead of “training” or “instruction” does not make it performance-centred. Content and scope is usually determined by a Subject-Matter Expert. MORE >>

Technology has changed how we work and often where we work, as we are now all mobile, and always on. Smartphones, net books and tablets have enabled our ability to work faster, cheaper, more efficiently and often more productively. This is often where it gets tricky. Be aware of that when you pull one out in a meeting; so, #2 Tell us! It matters. MORE >>

10 Steps to Writing a Vital Speech: The Definitive Guide to Professional Speechwriting, by Fletcher Dean Fletcher Dean is a working speechwriter at the Dow Chemical Company where he is Director of Leadership Communications. It frightens them.” Each chapter lists “Insider Tips”. This book is a good overall introduction to the craft of speechwriting. MORE >>