Steal the Show: From Speeches to Job Interviews to Deal-Closing Pitches, How to Guarantee a Standing Ovation for All the Performances in Your Life

If you’re expecting a straightforward “how to present” book, you’ll be disappointed. Instead you’ll walk away with really solid information on all aspects of good communication. A former actor, author Michael Port argues that presentations/speeches/interviews are all performances and as such start much, much earlier than when you walk on stage.

Thinking of interactions as performances is a useful construct because it helps keep you focused on how to communicate the points you need to make in the most powerful way. He gives practical techniques for creating stories, improvising, opening and closing presentations, and how to “crush your fears.” Because he was an actor he reminds you to use your body and get (and keep) your mind in the game.

Unlike many self-help tomes, he emphasizes that you need to find your own voice/style (vs following his “formula”) and he gives you help in discovering it. Because this book is jam packed with information you’ll probably want to refer back to specific sections once you’re ready to apply them after you’ve had a chance to digest the book.

If you want to be a more effective communicator, this book is a must read.