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Do You Talk Funny? summary
Brief summary
Do You Talk Funny? by David Nihill is a practical guide to improving your public speaking skills through the use of humor. It provides valuable tips and techniques to help you engage and entertain your audience.
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Table of Contents
Do You Talk Funny?
Summary of key ideas
Overcoming Fear with Humor
In Do You Talk Funny?, David Nihill shares his journey from being a terrified public speaker to a confident one, all with the help of stand-up comedy. Nihill's fear of public speaking was so intense that he decided to take a drastic approach to overcome it by immersing himself in the world of comedy.
He began by taking a stand-up comedy course, which taught him the importance of storytelling, timing, and delivery. He found that humor was the key to engaging an audience and keeping their attention. Nihill also learned that the best comedians make their routines sound spontaneous, even though they are meticulously rehearsed. He realized that these principles could be applied to public speaking as well.
Applying Comedy to Public Speaking
Nihill goes on to explain how he applied the principles of stand-up comedy to his public speaking engagements. He started structuring his presentations like a comedy routine, with a strong opening, engaging middle, and a powerful closing. He also learned to use humor as a tool to connect with his audience and make his content more memorable.
One of the key takeaways from the book is the 90/10 rule, which states that 90% of the time should be spent on preparation and only 10% on delivery. Nihill emphasizes the importance of rehearsing your speech multiple times to make it sound natural and effortless, just like a comedian would rehearse their routine.
Seven Comedy Habits for Better Speaking
Nihill introduces seven comedy habits that can help improve public speaking. These habits include how to find the funny in your content, developing a strong stage presence, and using self-deprecating humor to connect with your audience. He also discusses the importance of knowing your audience and tailoring your content to their interests and expectations.
Another important habit Nihill discusses is the ability to handle unexpected situations, such as technical glitches or hecklers, with grace and humor. He emphasizes the importance of being adaptable and thinking on your feet, just like a comedian would in a live performance.
Lessons from the Comedy World
Throughout the book, Nihill shares insights and anecdotes from his interactions with professional comedians. He explains how he learned from their experiences and adapted their techniques to his public speaking style. He also discusses the role of vulnerability in comedy and how being open about your fears and failures can make you more relatable as a speaker.
In conclusion, Do You Talk Funny? is a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their public speaking skills. Nihill's journey from fear to confidence, with the help of stand-up comedy, serves as an inspiring example of how humor can be a powerful tool for effective communication. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or someone who dreads public speaking, this book offers practical advice and actionable tips to help you talk funny, and talk better.
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What is Do You Talk Funny? about?
Do You Talk Funny? by David Nihill is a humorous and practical guide to public speaking. Drawing on his own experiences as a nervous speaker turned stand-up comedian, Nihill offers valuable tips and insights on how to use humor to engage your audience and become a more confident and effective communicator. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or someone who dreads public speaking, this book will help you conquer your fears and deliver memorable presentations.
Do You Talk Funny? Review
Do You Talk Funny? (2016) provides an insightful exploration of the art of public speaking, offering practical tips and humorous anecdotes. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- It offers practical advice on overcoming the fear of public speaking, making it accessible and applicable for anyone looking to improve their communication skills.
- The book blends humor and storytelling seamlessly, keeping readers engaged and entertained while learning essential public speaking techniques.
- With its refreshing perspective and approachable tone, the book makes the topic of public speaking engaging and far from dull, ensuring an enjoyable reading experience.
Who should read Do You Talk Funny??
Aspiring public speakers who want to improve their presentation skills
Professionals who need to give presentations or speeches as part of their job
Introverts who want to become more comfortable and confident when speaking in front of others
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Do You Talk Funny? FAQs
What is the main message of Do You Talk Funny?
The main message of Do You Talk Funny? is how to use humor effectively in public speaking and presentations.
How long does it take to read Do You Talk Funny?
Reading Do You Talk Funny? takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Do You Talk Funny? a good book? Is it worth reading?
Do You Talk Funny? is worth reading for its practical tips on incorporating humor into speaking, making it engaging and informative.
Who is the author of Do You Talk Funny?
The author of Do You Talk Funny? is David Nihill.
What to read after Do You Talk Funny??
If you're wondering what to read next after Do You Talk Funny?, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Made to Stick by Chip Heath and Dan Heath
- The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs by Carmine Gallo
- Selling the Invisible by Harry Beckwith
- You Can Negotiate Anything by Herb Cohen
- Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi
- Pitch Anything by Oren Klaff
- Getting to Yes by Roger Fisher, William Ury & Bruce Patton