How to Develop Self-Confidence And Influence People By Public Speaking

After having read HOW TO DEVELOP SELF-CONFIDENCE & INFLUENCE PEOPLE by PUBLIC SPEAKING by Dale Carnegie, I genuinely feel compelled to write a brief review. First, I found this book to be useful and pratical. The author provides general principles regarding how to develop self-confidence and improve one's speaking peformance, then provides an illustration of that principle. In other words, the author is effectively instructing us on how to improve our public speaking peformance, which is critical in so many professions. Second, this book contains brilliant depth. In fact, to be forward, I was skeptical I would even find this book useful. I have provided speeches with nearly 300 people in attendance. However, when it came to my performance before small groups --say, three to twelve people-- I tended to flounder. From this book, I learned that I must prepare for my short presentations as I prepare for my more lengthy presentations. A few quick pointers: memorize your opening and closing, which I was not doing for my small group presentations; I was often attempting to "wing" them. However, subsequently reading this book, my presentations are more effective and have more grace. Third and in conclusion, the final chapter was somewhat astonishing for me. I was literally mispronouncing a few words, and I am very grateful for having received instruction and guidance from the author. For example, I was mispronouncing vIand, antIdote, amEnable, cUlinary, sUpine, lab-o-ra-tory, bev-er-age, Cath-o-lic, choc-o-late, di-a-mond, fo-li-age, gal-ler-y, et al.! I honestly state with confidence that this little treasure is a "must read" for professionals, particularly those required to speak before small and large audiences. On a final note, I only wish I had read this book earlier, my life would have been quite easier. Sincerely, Clovis

I regularly give public talks, and am always looking for ways to improve my speaking and organizational abilities. On a lark, I picked this up from a friend's bookshelf, and simply couldn't put it down, eventually buying my own copy. It isn't only that the author offers highly useful, practical information regarding poise, confidence, and organization, but also writes with a level of skill that is truly rare. I recommend this book not only to burgeoning and expert public speakers alike, but also to writers interested in reading truly masterful prose.

I was asked to speak to out local church group recently. With little to no public speaking experience, I went out and got this book rather than decline to speak (a thought that had crossed my mind)My presentation went over in a big way. It was very successful. The tips and advice really worked. In fact, they worked so well that I have since joined toastmasters and have bought other books on public speaking.From zero to above average public speaker. Thank you Mr. Carnegie!

I have been a Toastmaster for several years. This book pulled my experiences together, and showed me how to make better use of preparation and presentation techniques. Carnegie addresses the whole person, and radiates an interest in people and their goals. Two of the more valuable approaches of the book were its focus on the gradual development of a speech through the use of constant reflection, and its instruction for using imagery to recall the points of a speech when you are actually out on the floor. Another strong point of the book is its use of examples, both from historical and comtemporary (for the author) sources. The examples not only strengthen the interest of the reader, but augment and reinforce the points Carnegie is emphasizing.