Book Description
Technical Communication represents the works of five highly respected authors, all writing in their areas of expertise. Scientific examples and assignments within a social context are used for a realistic view of communication issues. This is the only text to extensively address argument, including reasoning, credibility, persuasion, decision making, problem solving, and critical thinking. The topic of audience is also addressed more thoroughly than in any other text. The book covers the traditional parts of the technical communication course but has been updated greatly to respond to the demands that the computer places on communicating.
Book Description
With over 40,000 copies sold, the first edition of Persuasive Business Proposals helped many readers construct dynamic, effective proposals. Now in paperback, this fully-revised second edition still gives readers simple, effective techniques for organizing, writing, and delivering proposals while updating the author's winning strategies for today's global business environment.
By cutting through the confusion, and providing dozens of real-world examples, this updated version provides step-by-step instructions for crafting value-centered, recipient-specific proposal packages, with all-new discussions on:
* How to increase business using new communication channels from e-mail and electronic submissions to PDF, HTML, and others * The Seven Worst Proposal Mistakes illustrated with real-world examples
This is an essential book for anyone seeking to win contracts and sell projects.
Customer Reviews:
A Great Business Proposal "How-To".......2007-10-24
When my manager told me to be prepared to get involved with proposal writing, I chose this book as my initial `self-study' effort. After reading it, and using it to help me analyze some of my company's old, new, and draft proposals, I am convinced that my choice of proposal books was right on target. I now have a detailed, indexed, and cross-referenced 85+-page reference document of my personal notes and observations of the book that is never far away and is often used.
The book is organized into four sections that take the reader through a logical progression that has a lot to offer both experienced and inexperienced proposal persons: 1) Why You Need This Book, 2) A Primer on Persuasion, 3) How to Manage the Process and Keep Your Sanity, and 4) Writing to Win. Sant's humor and natural writing style combined with his extensive experiences to produce a book that is as pleasurable to read as it is informative. If you are involved in any way with business proposals, you will be well-served to buy, read, and keep handy this outstanding book.
Practical Polish for Proposals.......2007-08-13
This is a great primer for writing general proposals. It's chock full of information as well as being very readable. I read it in 2 evenings and was able to utilize what I found the day the book arrived.
It's written by the founder of Sant Solutions, a great RFP/Proposal software, and never mentions this so there are NO infomercial ties as with lots of these kinds of things.
Excellent resource.
A practical guide that's also a lively read.......2007-07-16
Writing customer proposals, especially in response to a lengthy and complex RFP, involves more than simply answering the questions and attaching the required support material. It involves creating compelling messages and value propositions, understanding the customer's true needs, and establishing the credibility of your offering. Sant provides a practical, clear guide to both content and process when writing proposals. Many of his suggestions are relevant to other types of technical writing and marketing writing projects as well. His lively writing style and numerous examples make an otherwise dull subject an entertaining and informative read.
A Common Sense Approach.......2007-05-06
Dr. Sant's book equips you with the information you need, but doesn't bog you down with extensive processes. In today's fast paced contracting world, we no longer have the luxury of 30-60 days of writing time. We need to move towards a faster proposal turn around. Dr. Sant's book provides the framework to scale up or down depending on the size of your resources and time.
Buy it today!.......2007-03-02
If you write proposals, or employ those who do, you need this book. Tom Sant is the Michael Jordan of proposals (although not as tall) and this book can help you write better proposals.
Tom's emphasis on the executive summary, methodology for structuring the document and ability to write about this complex subject in the correct tone set this book apart form all of the other books on the market. Of particular interest to those who have read many books on proposals should be the chapter on editing your proposal.
An unexpected by-product of this book is that you will find it helpful for all of your business communications. I've used Tom's NOSE structure successfully in many different areas.
This book is every bit as good as others say it is. There is a reason that Tom Sant is the only one name in the proposal game.
Customer Reviews:
A legitimately great book.......2004-01-18
Rereading the reviews of this book, I was surprised by the one negative review of this book by Tony DaGiau. No surprise! Turns out that he runs some solo consulting company that competes head on with the Sant Corporation, Tom Sant's company! If Tony writes a book on dirty tricks, it'll be worth reading. Other than that, stick with Sant's book (and, if the book is any indication, Sant's company).
Exactly what I needed.......2004-01-18
This book should be the first resource to which you turn if you need to write a persuasive document.
Although this book is directed towards business writers, the information in it is just right for understanding the psychology and techniques of persuasion. I used the book extensively for developing grant proposals (for higher education) and saw my success ratio double. As a result, I won more backing and my colleagues are still asking how I did it.
The author makes good points that produce good results, from his pointers on style and jargon to his mini-primers on formatting. Sant is absolutely at the head of the class.
A persuasive book on persuasive writing........2001-09-25
Tom Sant has put together one of the single best books on proposal writing. Whether you are responding to a bid request or just designing a basic proposal the book is filled with tips for getting the winning contract. Everything is covered here. There are examples of bad proposals and details of what is wrong with them, examples of how to make your proposal stand out from the others and even a primer on the basics of persuasion. It is well organized and flows well from the beginning to the end of the process not only defining what should be done but why you are doing it. This knowledge gives you the ability to adapt to unusual situations instead of just using a boilerplate method for all your contracts. It even comes with a small but thorough checklist in the appendix to make sure that you have left no stone unturned in creating the proposal.
There is however, one point that I would like to have seen added to the book. At the last of the book he emphasizes the importance of editing your proposal. When you are done then read it again as a whole to see that it contains continuity, check it for spelling errors, check it for grammar errors, etc. Read it from front to back two or three times to make sure that you catch everything so that you don't lose credibility with your audience. While I agree totally, on long proposals I also start from the back section and read the sections from back to front. Why? As you are rereading for editing your attention to detail tends to decrease and you become more careless after a certain point. Starting from the back sections gives you a chance to read those sections while still fresh. Does it work? Well let's take a look at his book itself. No errors jump out at me until page 178 where the word "about" is spelled "abut". Well if that is the only problem then he has still done well. Then I got to page 186 where he has an example of a badly worded item. After showing the better wording the book states "That's a little better, isn't it? A little easier to understand the first time through?" Obviously he meant to say that it is "easier to understand THAN the first time through". And then a third error on page 188 where he is discussing the importance of using "complement" and "compliment" correctly. But during the discourse he actually spells "complement" as "conplement". A perfect discourse that suddenly has three errors within ten pages.
This is still a fantastic book on the details of how to write a proposal, things to do, things to avoid, how to persuade, how to focus the proposal or contract, etc. It belongs on the shelf of anyone who writes proposals and contracts or any form of communication, which involves convincing other people to see your position. I even successfully used the information in the book to detail the current status and proposed direction of a mishandled project and was able to win the client back and keep the contract.
Very Helpful Book on Writing Proposals.......2001-05-31
This book is a must for everyone who has to write a proposal. It gave me some great ideas and different ways of writing, so my proposals were much better. The book is easy to read and I started to implement Sant's ideas immediately. I also hear that his company has very useful software to help automate proposal writing as well.
This Book helps you WIN!.......2001-05-30
Tom Sant's structure and approach to proposal writing and responding to RFP's has already helped me win more business. BY following his methodology, my proposals are far more persuasive and client-centered. It is a quick read, and gives you more than enough examples and some humor. If you write proposals, this is the book you need. Sant also has award winning software that follows the structure of the book and helps automate the proposal and RFP response process.
Book Description
As clear, concise, and concrete as its subject, Patrick Riley's The One–Page Proposal promises to be the definitive business guide to getting your best ideas fully understood in the least amount of time.
Today more than ever, business decisions are made on the fly栮d first impressions can make all the difference. Now, in the first book of its kind, successful entrepreneur Patrick Riley shows you how to boil all the elements of your business proposal into one persuasive page栮d magnify your business potential in the process.
Customer Reviews:
Great for the Entepreneur.......2007-08-13
This book is exactly what the title describes itself as: a theory and method of creating a one page proposal. It's best suited for the entepreneur pitching venture capitalists. I got some ideas from it, but wasn't as helpful as I'd hoped for what I needed. One thing I'd have liked would have been a job aid/chart with the section titles and brief highlight of what to include.
Cut through the clutter. Get you proposal noticed and read........2007-08-07
It took just 2 hours hours to read. The instructions are simple (not simplistic) and easy to follow. The prescription will help you get your thinking clear. The one pager will get your message read and noticed. Decision makers - who are normally inundated with unstructured requests for their attention and support - will appreciate the format.
A range of examples show you how the concept has worked for the author and others.
A perfect solution .......2007-03-02
I stumbled upon this at the Chicago Public Library. After reading it and returning it I didn't think much of it. For some reason, however, it stuck with me.
After Amazon delivered it I remembered why it stuck with me: the concept is perfect for putting down just the parts of an idea or project you need to remember and those you need to convey. It is perfect in its simplicity.
I use this format extensively and find that it helps both me and the reader stay focused on the key points. I highly recommend both the method and the book. This, Tom Sant's Persuasive Business Proposals and Powerful Proposals by David G. Pugh and Terry R. Bacon may be the only books on proposal anyone needs!
Professional Proposals in One Concise Page!.......2006-12-12
Well, I'm done writing 10-15 page proposals that are just glanced thru. The One-Page Proposal provides a methodology to concisely present your complete proposal on one page. It saves you time in the proposal process and provides your potential client with a very focused proposal. I rate this one a winner and am now using this exclusively for client proposals. It works and it saves time!
The 1-page concept is good, but this book is not so good..........2006-11-10
...unless you have very little business writing experience. The 1-page concept is valid, but this book and its examples are unimpressive (and sometimes dull, naive and self congratulating). Still, it might be worth a quick read for some of you, which is why I'll give it 3 stars. Note: I probably should have given it 2 stars since some of these other reviews are so over the top positive that to me they are not credible (I almost think they were written by shills).
Book Description
The tools to inform, persuade, entertain an audience of any size, and to ultimately win more business.
From informal luncheons to formal meetings before selection committees, more than one million business presentations are given in the United States every working day. Unfortunately, very few efforts succeed, primarily because the professionals making them don't place a premium on the real power of the presentation: the pitch that will win the business. Instead, they get hung up on writing proposals or creating PowerPoint slides.
The ability to powerfully present oneself can be many times more valuable than technical knowledge and experience, according to training expert Gary Hankins. For the first time, he has outlined his proprietary formula that will virtually guarantee success for sales, marketing, advertising, and public relations professionals and executives at all levels.
The Power of the Pitch shows readers how to incorporate into their own presentations the same techniques and strategies Hankins and his team use to coach thousands of professionals in a variety of industries. Examples include:
Vital steps to be taken before and after every presentation How to get prospects to like the presenter within the critical first 30 seconds of a presentation A powerful way to organize the content of any presentation Ways to grab an audience, keep their attention, and leave them wanting more Tips on effectively using technology, such as Web conferencing, videoconferencing, and teleconferencing
Unlike most communication books, The Power of the Pitch provides a comprehensive, time-tested formula for successful presentations that can be followed from the moment the appointment is made until the prospect says ""yes."" Also included is a list of books, newsletters, Web sites, and downloads that will aid in creating increasingly more successful pitches.
Customer Reviews:
Excellent way to improve your communication skills.......2006-10-10
A few summers ago I was fortunate enough to come across a copy of the book The Power of the Pitch by Gary Hankins. After flipping through a few of the pages I knew that I had to purchase this book.
As an entrepreneur - especially a young one - you will always be judged by not only what you say, but how you say things. Having the ability to effectively and clearly communicate your ideas, visions, and plans of your company is extremely important and goes a long way in how people view your character.
Let's keep it real, the majority of the people that you pitch your ideas to aren't going to share your vision and will brush your words off quite easily. Knowing that, it's in the entrepreneur's best interest to become the best communicator than he or she possibly can.
Hankins' book is an excellent place to start reading about the fundamentals of becoming a great communicator. The book is a fun and relaxing read and packed with tons of useful information such as:
- Learning how to tell a story when giving a presentation.
- The benefits of seeding in jokes throughout your presentation.
- Tips on practicing your speech with friends for honest feedback.
- How to customize your message for the different audiences.
- Keeping eye contact with key people.
- How to stay relaxed and be confident.
- Focusing your message on your target audience, not yourself.
- And much, much, more....
The key thing to remember when giving a speech or presentation is preparation, preparation, and more preparation! Without taking the necessary steps to insure that your message is clearly presented and fully understanding the material of which you speak of, your credibility level will drop faster than you can ever image.
Hankins' book is well worth the read for any entrepreneur trying to step up their communication skills. After reading the book, it would be wise to start testing out some of the techniques at your local Toastmasters club. Because at the end of the day, public speaking is more about doing than reading.
Go get 'em!
The Power of the Pitch.......2005-06-22
For someone spending their life in marketing, this is the best guide I've seen.
Fulfillment Within Your Grasp.......2005-06-17
"The Power of the Pitch", I believe, stands alongside some of the greatest aids in the area of development of individual potential and professionalism -- whatever the goal. Succinct, focused and entertainingly presented, the text is akin to being accompanied by a coach -- guiding and training easily yet profoundly -- in the very basic tenets that make for a totally developed, confident. personality
Gary picks up on the many aspects of character traits endeavoring to shape and mold each until culminating into one finished, polished and confident persona -- the results of which easily promises a life ennobled by fulfillment and ultimate success.
This is a book I have read, re-read, hi-lighted and will keep active as my own personal coach. Mostly, I was impressed and encouraged by Gary's practical strategies to enforce a discipline until it becomes a natural lifestyle. Whether you're a novice or entrepreneur, "The Power of the Pitch", for sure, has something for you!
Great Learning Tool!.......2005-06-17
This book is a very user-friendly, fun way to become a better presenter in all fields.
A Pragmatic, All-Inclusive Guide to Persuasion.......2005-04-28
"Pitch" may have a negative connotation to the same group of people who regard "sales" as a less than legitimate profession. Hankins has the courage to show us that any communication with intent to persuade is a "pitch" and that sure makes us all salespeople much of the time. You may not appreciate his button-down, rules-oriented approach if you're a free spirit with an irrepressible ego, but you'll glom onto the numerous templates and procedures once you see that they all but guarantee success! Hankins' combination of well-tested practices with the technically sophisticated tools available today and the acknowledgement of an over-saturated public give this book a gritty realism that is unabashadly prescriptive. He knows these things work and has earned the right to tell us about them. Frequent references to his daughter's wisdom, his own foibles and personal stories of friends and clients provide a warm contrast to the otherwise mercantile feel of the journey. You'll come away knowing not only Hankins' philosophy and tricks, but also his underlying humanness. Combined with the generous listing of helpful websites and open-door view of his reference library, the author has given until he can give no more. This is a one-evening read that you will want to come back to for years.
Book Description
Top speakers such as Anthony Robbins and Lou Holtz reveal how they work their magic. Using the same winning formula that propelled her Secrets of Successful Speakers to sales of over 85,000 copies, best-selling author Lilly Walters examines what makes the cream-of-the-crop motivational speakers stand above the rest. She interviews or does detailed profiles 19 superstars--including Maya Angelou, Les Brown, Jack Canfield, Deepak Chopra, Stephen Covey, Sir Winston Leonard Spenser Churchill, Elizabeth Dole, Mark Victor Hansen, Lou Holtz, Vince Lombardi, Sr. and Jr., Earl Nightingale, Norman Vincent Peale, Christopher Reeve, Anita Roddick, Tony Robbins, Brian Tracy, Dottie Walters, and Zig Ziglar. Perhaps more importantly, she interviews hundreds whose lives have been changed when they heard the words of these superstar speakers.
Customer Reviews:
Absolutely wonderful book - congratulations on a masterpiece!.......2007-06-20
I've been a professional speaker, trainer and consultant for over 20 years now, and this has got to be one of the best (top-3) books on pro speaking I've ever read. I wish I'd picked it up years ago.
Inspirational and moving, the hundreds of paragraphs of tips from top speakers like Brian Tracy, Mark Victor Hansen, Tony Robbins and of course the Walters are absolutely vital, extremely helpful (even at this stage in my career - this one will really help me!), and a wonderfully valuable book.
I've bought virtually every book on public speaking available, and this one is the one that touched me the most. Think of it like an "inspiration for those who speak", sharing the deep, personal insights from some of the world's top speakers.
This one's a must-get if you are a seminar presenter or speaker. Bravo!
Thanks,
Ken Calhoun
Not a book to buy if you want the basics.......2005-08-12
I really wasn't as enthused about this book as the other reviewers. And I'm writing my review because I based my purchase of this book on the many glowing reviews preceding mine.
I bought Secrets of Superstar Speakers thinking I would learn the tips the superstar speakers used so I could use them myself. But Walters only superficially goes into those tips. And many of these tips were obvious and seemed to be "filler". For instance, one section tells you how to stay motivated in the lean years, and tips from "superstars" include: loving what you do, hanging in there, there's no quick fix, and having faith. This advice sounded trite and isn't much help to a reader who's looking for simple speaking tips.
When Walters finally touches on practical and useful superstar tips, she delves into them only superficially and often advises the reader to read her other previously published books to learn more. In fact, Walters plugs her other books quite a bit throughout.
I was also disappointed that the only superstar speakers Walters discusses are motivational speakers. I hadn't realized this was going to be the case, despite the subtitle "Wisdom from the greatest motivators of our time." I thought this book would include great businesspeople, salespeople, lecturers, who are also talented motivators (they motivate you to buy, sell, do, etc.). If you've got more than Tony Robbins-type motivation to talk about, then this book is not for you.
I also felt that Walter's advice was repetetive. She would suggest a tip only to repeat it again on the same page and the next page and the next. Funny enough, the tip to repeat your message was repeated ad nauseum.
The grammar and writing skills were sorely lacking, which was distracting and detracting. To wit, on page 226: "As you put all of these skills on the platform, remembering to appear natural and unrehearsed, takes a great deal of preparation and practice." Sentences like this had me shaking my head.
Only when you get to the last 40 or so pages, you get good meaty tips, which is why I gave this review 2 stars instead of just 1. But the rest of the book is really just superficial filler about motivational speakers.
Finally, I have to say that I also found it offensive that the author managed to squeeze in references to God, religion and Christianity on practically every page. It doesn't seem to occur to her that her readers might be of another religion or might not be religious at all. And since this is not a book about religion, I felt the vast number of religious references were entirely unwarranted.
Another Great Book by Lilly Walters.......2004-03-17
I love this book! Reading how the greatest motivational speakers motivate themselves--gets me motivated!
Zev Saftlas, Author of Motivation That Works: How to Get Motivated and Stay Motivated
PS I am a big fan of Jack Canfield. There is a lot of stuff from him and Mark V Hanson in this book. For example, here is a little excerpt from Jack:
"At my seminar I do a section on `discovering your life's purpose'. We start off by hitting it from the external, then we eventually approach it from the inside. We get them to answer questions like: Who are you envious of?
I was envious of Kenny Rogers, the singer. I had to ask myself, what is it I am envious of? One, he brings pro-athletes down to his ranch in Virginia. He's got a football field, a baseball diamond, a basketball court, tennis court, all built in. He brings in John McEnroe from the tennis world, Larry Byrd from the Pacers, football players. They divide up into teams and have a mini Olympics type event all week. They play all day, then at night they get massages and have gourmet meals. Kenny is also a great portrait photographer, so he takes pictures of everyone. I thought, what is it that I envy about that? I realized it is that I love hanging out with people who are the best at what they do. It helped me realize my passion is for information, for sharing, for generosity, for making a difference.
I start with the envy question, then I ask, 'Think back in your life, when did you feel most alive? When did you feel most happy? When did you feel most loved? What was your greatest success? What was it about that success that made it a success?' As they answer these, people start to see some patterns
.
Finally, we ask, 'Who do you admire most on the planet alive or dead? If you could be anyone on the planet, who would you be?' If someone says Tony Robbins, that is a real different statement than Mother Teresa. It helps define what they want to express.
With their eyes closed I have them imagine they are climbing a mountain, they go into a temple, and this wise person comes and brings them a gift. As they open the gift, it will symbolically represent their life's purpose. People open it and get things like a children's book, this because they are supposed to write a children's book. Some get little poor kids looking up a them with hope, this because they are supposed to go empower those kids. People get in touch with their passion and their purpose." --Jack Canfield
Super Book.......2003-05-14
Book has great ideas and ways to become a better public speaker. Very good overall.
A Good Read!.......2001-04-27
Lilly Walters focuses on the success stories of 19 top speakers and their hints for speaking well. She highlights their backgrounds, turning points and key sayings, and then provides tips on becoming a top speaker using their methods for developing and giving effective presentations. Hearing what these speakers say about the principles of good speechmaking is interesting, but their "insider" tips are pretty obvious, even to an outsider. Most of their advice is widely known within the speaking industry and is presented here repetitively. Don't be put off by the "read this resume" nature of the initial introductions, because they put the speakers in context and show their success. We [...] recommend this book to virgin public speakers or those who want a refreshing booster, to those who book big-name talkers, or to those who like to read recreationally about celebrities and their ideas.
Amazon.com
Writing for nonprofits is a juggling act. One's job might entail writing grant proposals, newsletters, thank-you notes, case statements, and Web-site material--each for a different boss. The most successful development writers take the time to both experience their causes firsthand (sleep in the shelter, go to rehearsals, visit the wilderness) and cultivate personal relationships with their donors ("people give to people"). You'll give yourself an amazing head start when applying for a grant, say Joseph Barbato and Danielle Furlich, just by following an organization's guidelines and getting your math right--it's surprising how many fundraisers do neither. Make your point once, clearly, and don't forget the human element. "You aren't just asking for money," say the authors of Writing for a Good Cause, "you are asking to help people." Barbato and Furlich, both veteran fundraisers, interviewed both grants administrators and development writers for this guide. The result is an inside view of the arcane workings of the world of fundraising that would make any novice feel more proficient immediately. Their "gotta-get-it-out-right-now, how-late-is-FedEx-open? Down-and-dirty proposal kit" is a terrific tool when there isn't time to write the "knockout, beguiling, exciting, can't-put-it-down, and surely can't-turn-it-down fundraising proposal." And keep in mind: when a donor gives your proposal the nod, say thank you. Twice. In fact, say Barbato and Furlich, "It is almost impossible to thank a donor too much." --Jane Steinberg
Book Description
Filled with tips and survival skills from writers and fund-raising officers at nonprofits of all sizes, Writing for a Good Cause is the first book to explain how to use words well to win your cause the money it needs. Whether you work for a storefront social action agency or a leading university, the authors' knowledgeable, practical advice will help you:
- Write the perfect proposal -- from the initial research and interviews to the final product
- Draft, revise, and polish a "beguiling, exciting, can't-put-it-down and surely can't-turn-it-down" request for funds
- Create case statements and other big money materials -- also write, design, and print newsletters, and use the World Wide Web effectively
- Survive last-minute proposals and other crises -- with the Down-and-Dirty Proposal Kit!
Writing for a Good Cause provides everything fund raisers, volunteers, staff writers, freelancers, and program directors need to know to win funds from individual, foundation, and corporate donors.
Download Description
From storefront social action agencies to leading museums and universities, organizations across the country are seeking funds for good causes. But even the best cause doesn't stand a chance when proposals and other materials are badly written or deadly dull. Writing for a Good Cause is the first book to explain how to use words well to win the support of funders.
The authors, who have applied their writing talents to a variety of good causes, address the full range of challenges writers in development offices face. Their knowledgeable, practical advice covers:
-- Writing the perfect proposal -- from the initial research and interviews to the final product
-- Drafting, revising, and polishing a "beguiling, exciting, can't-put-it-down and surely can't-turn-it-down" request for funds
-- Creating case statements and other big money materials -- including how to write, design, and print newsletters and use the World Wide Web effectively
Filled with tips from writers at nonprofits and suggestions from top foundation funders, Writing for a Good Cause provides everything volunteers, staff writers, freelancers, and others need to know to fashion persuasive presentations for individual, foundation, and corporate donors.
Customer Reviews:
Writer Writing For Writers.......2007-07-13
Immensely "Readable" guidelines for writing all types of fundraising materials. Barbato has written a timeless, easy to follow handbook that holds a special place on my reference bookshelf.
Writing for a good cause!.......2006-04-25
Excellent book with very practical tips on writing to get funded. There are many grantwriting books and resources available, but this is one of the better that I've found for writing persuasively for major gifts. Great practical advice on formulating winning proposals, concept papers and other grant writing tools. Definitely recommend to grantseekers of all levels.
Not just a guide to writing proposals - a guide to life.......2002-08-12
Not surprisingly, this book provides advice that -- if applied literally -- will assist you in writing excellent proposals to fund your non-profit organization's ventures.
Surprisingly, the advice contained herein -- if made more generic in your mind -- is excellent advice for entire areas of your life. Sounds hokey, true. But honestly, boiled down the advice can be listed as:
1. Identify what the problem is. Do your research until you really understand the causes of the problems and their many effects.
2. Identify how you will know when you have made the problem better. How will you know when the problem has been alleviated? What intermediate steps need to be taken? How will you measure your progress along the way?
3.Identify what tools are available, and which are still needed, to move towards a resolution, or diminution, of the problem. Be specific here. Vague generalities are useless, but the brass tacks of a solution are absolutely priceless. Who has access to these tools? Who can make difficult things easy?
4. If you are asking for someone to help you with this problem, present the whole equation to them in a light that makes the most sense to *them*. This doesn't mean to lie, or exaggerate. It only means to focus your proposal in a way that makes them see it most personally.
5. Proofread what you have written, to be sure it says what you want it to say. Then proofread it again. And again. Get it right, because it is a hard and fast representative of you. This should be true in everything concrete you put out in the world with your name on it.
Now, all of this can be applied to writing a grant proposal. And much of it can be applied to the other things in life. Filling a job position, finding a home, working out a deteriorating relationship, educating yourself or your children ... you name it.
It's so rare that a book directed at an audience of specialists resonates with so much broadly applicable truth ... and it was such a delight to find it. I plowed through this book last night, reading every word, applying its advice mentally to all sorts of issues in my own life. I am pleased to report that it opened my eyes to solutions that had eluded me until now.
Wonderfully written, amusingly told, full of great advice to writers of all persuasive materials, this book is a gem.
I put sticky notes on half the pages.......2002-08-09
I took this book, along with many others on fundraising, out of my local library. Though I'm new to raising funds, I've made much of my living writing articles and books; I wasn't sure it would have much to teach me.
This book was so startlingly useful that I had to buy it. It will likely become your most dog-eared fundraising guide.
Puts the Fun in Fundraising.......2002-07-11
When I am on deadline and desperately in need of help, "Writing for a Good Cause" is where I turn first for guidance, solace, or inspiration (seeing as how our office manager objects to open containers of alcohol at one's desk). Not only is this book full of incredibly practical writing tips in handy list form, it is also very funny and a page turner.
The heart of the book is a clear guide to how to write a great proposal, but other valuable topics are covered, including newsletters, case statements, interviews, and the like.
In one section, the authors mix genuine examples of great fundraising writing with an imaginary proposal to fund the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. They not only convince you to help build the Brooklyn Bridge, you're ready to buy it.
The bridge is not for sale, but this book is. It is well worth its price of two fast food lunches. Buy it, read it, and be happy.
Book Description
Two top public-speaking coaches offer fresh advice on giving effective speeches and presentations with the immediacy of a conversation.
The best speeches don't sound like speeches, and the best speakers make listeners feel as though they are being addressed directly. The trick is to make every presentation as natural and direct as a one-on-one conversation. This expert but accessible guide reveals:
- The six truths behind every conversation-and how to use them at the podium
- The three steps to inspiring any audience
- The seven secrets for using voice and body language
- The seven tools every speaker uses or misuses
Whether addressing a few colleagues or a packed auditorium, readers will find practical and simple techniques for inspiring every listener.
Customer Reviews:
There is no substitute!.......2007-03-20
Roy and Jeannette Henderson are two of this nations best public speaking authorities. I have taken their course and have been privileged to have known them for over 20 years during the course of my professional career. Their research is impeccable and their "theories" are easily translated to the podium. I have seen good speakers become remarkable speakers in a matter of days and weeks. Any person in a leadership position (or who are aiming for that top spot) should read their book and take their course. It really works.
A Must Read.......2007-02-08
The Henderson's book, There's No Such Thing as Public Speaking, is THE BEST book on presentational speaking I have ever read. It's a wonderful blend of solid concepts, practical applications, and invaluable techniques. It takes the speaker from the planning stage through to the execution stage of any presentation. It addresses not only speaking in front of a crowd, but also one on one and small group interactons.
This book is a must read for every corporate executive and military officer if they are truely serious about their career.
This "method" works!.......2007-01-31
Over the years I have given many book reviews, taught in a public high school and have made several curriculum presentations at state teachers' workshops. After reading Roy and Jeanette's book and studying their speaking concepts, I feel that I am a more effective communicator. In addition, I have seen remarkable results in other public speakers after speech coaching using their "one-on-one conversation".
I am happy to see this very talented couple share their life's work in this dynamic, reader-friendly book, THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS PUBLIC SPEAKING.
Jane Alter
Great Practical Tips on Speaking.......2007-01-29
Jeanette and Roy Henderson have published practical methods and tips on confidently speaking before any-sized group. They emphasize that if you can talk to a group by using eye contact just like a one-on-one conversation.
THERE'S NO SUCH THING AS PUBLIC SPEAKING.......2007-01-08
"There's No Such Thing as Public Speaking" is one of those rare reading gems that actually delivers on what it promises. It may not eliminate the "butterflies" we all get when we have to speak in public, but it does show
us how to get them to fly in formation, and to "make any presentation or speech as persuasive as a One-on-One Conversation." Examples of the authors'
expert advice include: The six truths behind every conversation-and how to use them at the podium. The three steps to inspiring an audience. The seven secrets of using your voice and body language effectively. The seven tools every speaker uses-or misuses. Amateur and professional speakers alike will benefit from buying and reading this excellent contribution by the Hendersons.
Book Description
"Writing in a readable style and developing communication concepts in an impressive manner, Whalen pulls from his experience in sales, broadcasting, politics, and teaching to inductively develop the process of acquiring competency as a communicator."
--CHOICE
"I See What You Mean is an invaluable book for the professional. Its warm and witty style of writing makes it an enjoyable book to read; its powerful message makes it a mandatory book to read. Joel Whalen explores the foundations of communication, focusing on the unique nature of business interactions, and then takes the issue to an even more practical level. I See What You Mean provides the necessary tools to prepare and deliver a persuasive presentation that leaves both the speaker and the listener satisfied. The book is sprinkled with tips, ranging from how to close the technical heavy sale to overcoming speech anxiety or building the credibility that will help springboard your career. I See What You Mean is a treasure of techniques and insights into business communication."
--E. Ruth White,
Advertising Associate, American Medical Association
"A welcome handbook to effective business communications! D. Joel Whalen's I See What You Mean is a fine across-the-board account of the communications skills and techniques essential in any successful enterprise."
--Bruce D'Agostino,
Dairy & Food Industries Supply Association, Inc.
"D. Joel Whalen's I See What You Mean is as entertaining as it is educational. The creative and clever analogies used in the text provide clear and interesting insight for the seasoned executive and the new professional alike. Dr. Whalen's colorful personality and keen ability to captivate an audience have been perfectly translated into text that is logically written and exciting to read. Ideal for classroom use--students come to class prepared and eager to apply what they've learned from the reading."
--Jeric Johnson,
The Disney Channel & Kellstadt Fellow DePaul University
Develop the communication "street-smarts" necessary for working in a teamwork environment by learning how to:
- Create a high-impact presentation in five minutes
- Manage your stage fright
- Persuade angry bosses and managers
- Increase your credibility
I See What You Mean is a practical, innovative guide that has been extensively tested with MBA students and business executives. Author D. Joel Whalen has shown thousands of people how to be more successful by being more persuasive. This auspicious new volume includes research-based examples, tips, and exercises that teach you the communication skills necessary to survive and thrive in the new business environments of today.
I
See What You Mean is an excellent resource for business communication courses and executive development programs as well as anyone pursuing a career in management, marketing, communications, social work administration, or public administration.
Book Description
A quick and easy formula for selling your product, your service, yourself, that gets results..guaranteed
Whatever you have to sell, be it product or service, this book will show how to create the perfect presentation and nail the sale. Written by the experts at Speechworks, this book arms the huge and guidance-hungry market of salespeople, business presenters, and entrepreneurs with a fool-proof formula for making the perfect pitch every time, whether they're talking to one person or an audience of thousands. With this book you'll find:
* A proven formula for organizing your thoughts for clarity and impact
* Visualization techniques that help you find the most compelling language and anecdotes to captivate even the toughest audiences
* Surefire techniques for increasing your physical presence and personal persuasiveness
SPRING ASHER and WICKE CHAMBERS (Atlanta, Georgia) are partners of Chambers & Asher Speechworks. They are also columnists for The Atlanta Journal/Constitution. For their work as TV producers they have received six Emmy Awards and the Best of Gannet Award for New Programming.
The A to Z guide to making a flawless business presentation.
Thirty-three million business presentations are made each day, most of them by people whose number one fear is public speaking. This is the complete guide to creating winning business presentations and making the perfect pitch. It includes a step-by-step guide that makes it easy to persuade the listener, develop evidence that sells, and create visuals that reinforce the message.
The authors train several thousand executives each year from organizations including MCI, Georgia-Pacific and UPS.
* Offers a foolproof formula: finding the hook, the incentive, and the style to sell anything to anyone.
Spring Asher and Wicke Chambers (both of Atlanta, GA) are partners of Chambers & Asher Speechworks, an organization providing communications consulting services to business professionals and executives.
Customer Reviews:
A secret weapon for building business........1998-06-02
This book helped me to quickly pull together my presentation(s) and helped me win a piece of profitable business. It also helped me feel less nervous making presentations and gave me practical information about what to do with my hands, how to use my voice, etc. An especially informative section focused on how to handle Q&A sesssions.
Books:
- The Agenda: What Every Business Must Do to Dominate the Decade
- The Elements of Style, Fourth Edition
- The Everyday Writer
- The Experience Economy: Work is Theater and Every Business a Stage
- The Fast Track One-Day Detox Diet: Boost metabolism, get rid of fattening toxins, safely lose up to 8 pounds overnight and keep them off for good
- The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook
- The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of The Learning Organization
- The Future of Business: The Essentials (with InfoTrac® College Edition)
- The Gregg Reference Manual
- The Gregg Reference Manual
Books Index
Books Home
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- Trends in the World-Wide Mining Industry
- Managerial Economics: Applications, Strategies and Tactics with Economic Applications
- The Boston Institute of Finance Stockbroker Course: Series 7 and 63 Test Prep + CD
- Roadside wildflowers of New Mexico
Communications
| Skills
| Business & Investing
| Subjects
| Books
Web Style Guide: Basic Design Principles for Creating Web Sites, Second Edition
Designing Visual Language: Strategies for Professional Communicators (Part of the Allyn & Bacon Series in Technical Communication)
Managing Your Documentation Projects
The Web Portfolio Guide: Creating Electronic Portfolios for the Web
Traffic Engineering, Third Edition
