I'd Rather Die Than Give a Speech [Hardcover]

Michael M. Klepper (Author), Robert Gunther (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: November 1, 1993

Written in an engaging and readable style, this practical guide is a must for both beginners and seasoned professionals. The step-by-step game plan will transform speech-making from a teeth-chattering ordeal to a rewarding experience that can benefit any career and company.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 180 pages
• Publisher: McGraw-Hill Companies; First Edition edition (November 1, 1993)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1556239513
• ISBN-13: 978-1556239519
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.8 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,218,611 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars The smell of the greasepaint, March 20, 2008

By 

Linda Bulger (United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)    (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)   

This review is from: I'd Rather Die Than Give a Speech (Hardcover)

Have you ever fainted while giving a speech? Author Michael M. Klepper tells the story of one poorly prepared speaker who did just that. But if you're among the 40 percent of Americans who name public speaking as their greatest fear,* you can still get up in front of a group, stay conscious, and survive.

The formula is simple and common-sense; in summary: know what you want to achieve, know your audience, prepare and rehearse thoroughly, and get there early. The step-by-step chapters are designed to build confidence and give you the edge you need.

Klepper's material is clear and matter-of-fact. Some of his tips are obvious--know exactly how to get there, eat wisely before your speech, check the pronunciation of names--but it's not a bad thing to be reminded of the obvious when facing your greatest fear. He guides the reader through sections on body language (yours and theirs), seating arrangements, lighting, and the effective use of humor and statistics. Will there be a Q & A session after your talk? Don't miss the great chapter on avoiding Q & A troubles.

Although projection techiques have advanced since this book was published, the general advice on visual aids is still useful. Perhaps the scariest advice in the book is to always be prepared to give your speech without your visuals in the event of an irretrievable equipment malfunction.

Even if you have some experience in addressing groups, I'd Rather Die Than Give a Speech will help you kick it up a notch. It's an easy and informative read and well worth your time.

*Source: 2001 Gallup Poll

Linda Bulger, 2008

4.0 out of 5 stars Clear guidebook for those who need to speak in public., March 16, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: I'd Rather Die Than Give a Speech (Hardcover)

First-hand account by an author who overcame serious fear problems to become a leading communication consultant and trainer. Solid material in the hows - and whys - of speech preparation, performance strategies, making nerves work for you, and the importance of preparing for the Q&A, to name just a few. No Freudian analysis of why we develop anxiety, just a great "tool-box" of proven techniques to become a confident and masterful speaker. A solid asset for Toastmasters, sales people, managers, or anyone who needs to make public speaking a part of their life.