I wrote the following as part of an email conversation a few days ago and think it's worth mentioning here. When I was a horrible writer, I thought writing was something that either came naturally or not at all. Since, I've learned that writing is like other creative processes--something you work at.
Whether writing a blog post, work report, or speech, what follows is the rough process I use. The exact process depends on the nature of what I'm working on.
I answer questions well, innately. It is not easy for me to explain this talent.
I can't speak highly enough of Steven Tomlinson's ability to speak.
Last week, President Obama made an unforced error, mispronouncing a word three times in a public speech. Public speakers of all types risk this sort of thing by not practicing.
Intro: Clients from Hell
When you're introducing a new idea, its easy to get wrapped up in its details. You may be justifiably excited about exactly how your idea works, but details make for bad communication. You need to get people hooked. Hooked people will demand the details so they can share your excitement.
I judged PHC Debate Camp’s tourney this year. After two rounds, I was known, apparently, as ‘that judge.’ The judge that requested a team argue in rhyme and told another team to argue alliteratively. Part of this was pure malevolence. More than that, I wanted the teams to communicate well. It only takes a few practice rounds to become proficient at reading cards in response to the other side’s arguments. This, however, is Nerdly communication. It takes serious work to really communicate.