Here are some of my favorite books on presentation skills and communication – I hope you can find some inspiration in their pages.
Trust Me, Working the Room and Give your speech and change the world, by a master in the art, Nick Morgan. All three books shown here are great, and there are more! Just read them, that’s all I need to say.
Resonate by Nancy Duarte. “Reveals the underlying story form of all great presentations that will not only create impact, but will move people to action.”
Of all the books on presentation skills I’ve found, this is my favorite. It’s a beautiful book almost worth buying just to enjoy its beauty. It covers relatively advanced storytelling techniques in an analytical and inspiring way. Highly recommended if you aspire to intensely worked-on and polished presentations for special occasions.
Life is a series of presentations by Tony Jeary is one of the early books on the subject that I read. Lots of good advice.
“Whether you call them presentation skills or people skills, these eight essential practices will allow you to master any interaction, whether it involves a roomful of colleagues, a small group, or just one other person.”
The presentation secrets of Steve Jobs by Carmine Gallo
“The Presentation Secrets of Steve Jobs reveals the operating system behind any great presentation and provides you with a quick-start guide to design your own passionate interfaces with your audiences.”
A well analyzed and organized approach to putting together presentations. If you’d like a method to follow there’s lots here for you.
Presentation skills for quivering wrecks by Bob Etherington is as British in its style as Tony Jeary’ book is American. Lighthearted, easy to read and digest, and full of practical help that really helps!
“Laced with humour and wit, the author emphasizes that you don’t have to be a brilliant orator to be an effective speaker in business. Simply being good is plenty, because 95% of all business presenters are so awful!”
Books on persuasion
“This book is about a special kind of persuasion: ‘flipnosis’. It has an incubation period of just seconds, and can instantly disarm even the most discerning mind. Flipnosis is black-belt mind control. It doesn’t just turn the tables, it kicks them over.”
Lots of great content and, above all, many useful references. Its easy to read all in one sitting or to go back to again and again.
Fascinate. Your 7 triggers to persuasion and captivation by Sallay Hogshead.
Sway, the irresistible pull of irrational behaviour by Ori Brafman and Rom Brafman
Sway is a fascinating insight into the way we all behave and will change the way you view the world.
Books on getting your message across
“What is that makes urban myths so persistent but many everyday truths so eminently forgettable? How do newspapers set about ensuring that their headlines make you want to read on? And why do we remember complicated stories but not complicated facts?”
“Made to Stick” by Chip and Dan Heath is just the best book ever on storytelling in communication. A joy to read and absolutely packed with simple, clear great insights. Can’t do without it!