Review: Worth its weight in gold
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 01 18, 2013
More than a decade ago, when I studied Communications at University, handbooks of this style were primarily utilised by marketing and public relations specialists.  Given this, I'd read my fair share of guides on giving effective speeches as part of the compulsive element of the course...some good, some not so good, but most written in an academic text-book style which doesn't always appeal to the average reader.  In today's world, where presentation skills are no longer strictly reserved for communications professionals (in fact, they're almost a requirement in most modern-day professions) an easy-to-read handbook which offers quality advice and user-friendly techniques when it comes to presentations is, in one word, priceless.  And that is exactly what the author of `Grab `Em! The guide to Killer Presentation Skills', delivers.As its sub-title (The fun-damentals of communication) suggests, this guide presents its points in an easy-to-follow and easy-to-digest format, making it as `fun' as any learning experience can be.  The author's style is light, and he injects his obvious passion for giving presentations into the text, using first-hand experiences to convey his message.And experience is not something the author is short on.  Rooij is a communications professional, and has been teaching and refining his presentation skills for more than a decade.The guide is divided into two sections; Part I: The Basic Skills, and Part II: Fine-Tuning.  Nothing is left to chance, with all the important parts of delivering an effective presentation covered in detail; from building a rapport with your audience, to putting together a captivating structure, using concrete and striking examples, as well as using PowerPoint effectively.  There is even a section dedicated to what to wear and, for those difficult situations, a section dedicated to handling technical and audience hindrances.  And best of all?  It's all presented in a concise, 77 page guide...what more could you want?  (For those interested in further reading, there's also a bibliography which can be used as a reference guide, though this book pretty much says it all).This is a thorough and all-conclusive guide, and delivers exactly what its title suggests - killer presentation skills to grab that audience of yours.  And at its killer kindle price (especially when compared to similar titles in its league) it's definitely a worthwhile investment.  Even if it's just a short speech at a wedding you're sweating over, this book will help you build the confidence you need, with its handy techniques and concrete advice.  Make an impression and avoid the pitfalls that often spoil an otherwise strong presentation.  I couldn't recommend this more.