[(Purpose-Centered Public Speaking)] [Author: Gary Rodriguez] published on

by Gary Rodriguez

Have you ever wondered why some public speakers are so successful while others are not? What do they know and do that is different from the rest? Great speakers understand and employ many of the proven principles contained in this book. The good news is that you too can learn and apply these very same principles and improve as a public speaker.

Purpose-Centered Public Speaking helps you develop as a presenter by showing you some ways to deal with anxieties and fears related to speaking in public. It also demonstrates how to develop and deliver purposeful talks, speeches, and presentations that get planned results.

Here you will find a clear and systematic approach to speaking that is easy to follow. This simple yet comprehensive method will equip you with all you need to improve and enhance your public communication. Whether you are an aspiring speaker or an active presenter, this book will encourage and enrich you.

"In Purpose-Centered Public Speaking, Gary Rodriguez takes the fear out public speaking. Relating years of public speaking experiences, Gary provides a great game plan for you to become a fearless public speaker. His insights and wisdom will certainly make you a better public speaker. He will also make you a stronger communicator in all areas of your life." - Brent Jones, Former San Francisco 49er Tight End and Winner of Three Super Bowl Rings

"Purpose-Centered Public Speaking offers aspiring as well as active speakers valuable tips and techniques for improving their communication skills. In addition to the helpful instruction, you will also find this book highly entertaining. If you are a public speaker this is a book you should read." - Stephen G. Newberry, President & CEO Lam Research Corporation, Fremont

"Whether you are speaking for the first time or have a great deal of public speaking experience, this book is filled with grand advice." - Dr. Haddon Robinson, Distinguished Professor of Preaching at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary

"This book is so much more than a 'how to' on public speaking Rodriguez inspires the reader through compelling stories both deeply personal and at times universal. Anyone who wants to feel at ease in front of audiences will gain strength, encouragement and useful resources and tools on how to step into the spotlight and create rapport and connection with one's listeners." - Pamela Mclean, CEO, Hudson Institute of Santa Barbara

"Don't just read this book. Digest and practice the principles recorded here, and soon you will find an increasing ease in communicating and a more favorable response from your listeners." - Wayne Cordeiro, Founding Pastor of New Hope Christian Fellowship, Honolulu

"Great book and a must read for new, as well as seasoned managers having difficulty with public speaking or just looking to hone their skills. Simplifies and lays out a format that guides you through the process of speaking to large groups or smaller defined audiences. The pointed real-life examples keep the reader engaged and interested from cover to cover." - A. Mark Walter, President, Christenson Electric, Inc., Portland

"Dr. Rodriguez provides this guide for the novice public speaker and helps the reader to understand the skills necessary to present a great speech while also showing the many pitfalls that aspiring public speakers fall into. Developing one's own style is a very important aspect of public speaking and Dr. Rodriguez helps the reader to understand how to accomplish this. A thoroughly enjoyable read " - Randy Hahn, San Jose Hockey Play-by-Play Announcer

"Purpose-Centered Public Speaking will inspire public speakers of any caliber. It offers practical tips to improve speeches and encourages those who fear it most. A must read for any person tackling public speaking " - Kanoe Gibson. Miss Hawaii 2003 and first runner-up at Miss America 2004

Hardcover

First published August 1, 2010

Reviews

[Joy Madden · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Purpose-Centered Public Speaking’ by Dr. Gary Rodriguez states on the jacket cover "How to Develop and Deliver Purposeful Talks, Speeches, and Presentations with Less Fear and More Confidence." How does the book do this?

The author begins by explaining that the book is a glimpse into his life’s story, celebrating his “continuing journey and ongoing development as a public speaker.” The aim of the book appears to be two-fold:

1. To empower readers to improve their ability to speak in public.
2. To show a “simple, purposeful and systematic approach to public speaking.”

Even though he has been involved in public speaking for nearly four decades, the author says his growth as a speaker is continually developing. To hear that even an experienced speaker is an eternal student of public speaking makes you realise just what an art this is.

The author recounts personal stories throughout which makes you feel that he is speaking to you directly. His section on body language and how certain mannerisms enhance your talk would be particularly interesting to anyone giving presentations, talks or speeches, whatever field you are in. The many public speaking tips include an interesting section on how to calculate the number of words needed in your talk for different time-slots.

In the second half of the book he brings together the various tips and tools, and takes you through the development of a specific topic, from initial preparation to its concluding words. He also discusses how your fear of public speaking (glossophobia or speech anxiety) can “limit your career, influence, and potential for success” and why that fear can be as high as the fear of death, snakes and spiders!

This book would be useful to anyone who has to get up in front of others (small or large audiences) to deliver a message. Both novices and seasoned speakers would benefit as it has tips and tools to help you prepare yourself in various areas including personal confidence and speech content. Whether you are a lecturer, minister, teacher, salesperson, speaker, parent, etc., you will find it helpful for developing your presentation abilities or for polishing your delivery skills.

In summary, this self development book is written with a passion that makes you want to try out the tips and tools for reducing fear and increasing confidence as soon as you can. If you have a fear of public speaking, this book will help to create your speech, and to develop your presentation skills.

[Stacy · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a teacher I often have to speak to groups of parents and sometimes I speak to groups of teachers. I had not previously sought out any support or information on the art of speaking until I read this book. It provided a good framework for my future speaking attempts. This book provides very general information and would probably not be that beneficial to a seasoned speaker who had read other introductory books. I highly recommend this book to add to your professional arsenal if you have not read anything on speaking.

[Tevilla · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book provides good solid presenting tips. Nothing that is breaking news, but solid information. There are many links to other websites that can be helpful, but this also took away some of the credibility of the author for me.

This could have been an article just as easily as a book.

[Devon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A lot of good info, not groundbreaking, but good, practically written. Definitely helpful.