The Francis Effect: The Real Reason You Hate Public Speaking and How To Get Over It

As a public speaking skills trainer, I'm always looking for books that enhance my knowledge of the craft, and which I can share with those I train. I've been disappointed along the way by all kinds of speaking-related books that claim to offer concrete explanations of our collective fear of speaking, but really just dance around it for a while.

The Francis Effect is the exception I've been waiting for. It's hands-down the best overall public speaking book I've found. First, it gives an actual, legitimate, scientifically-based, easily-understandable explanation for our shared fear of speaking, that felt like a revelation when I read it. Then, it goes way beyond that, tackling every aspect of the speaking experience in clear, step-by-step detail, from preparation to slide design to the logical fallacies of many audience questions.

The book isn't perfect, and I did disagree with some advice and explanations here and there. Still, overall, it's leagues ahead of the other books I've read, remarkably well-researched and thorough.

I don't think I've ever used this cliche before, but it's true here: if you only buy one book to improve your speaking experience, consider this one. Well done!

An exceptional read detailing instinctual reactions to our vulnerabilities as public speakers as well as solid strategies to bolster confidence, improve techniques, and counteract initial reactions to avoid the discomfort of public presentation. Appropriate for professionals, college students, and those of us interested in deconstructing the obstacles that stand in the way of successs.

I am the author, and am so happy to report that The Francis Effect is one of three finalists for a Benjamin Franklin Award for the best book of 2006 in the area of psychology/self help. I'm delighted that people are finding the book helpful. I worked hard to share what I've learned in a way that is easy to put to immediate use, and want to thank my readers for your appreciation!

A must-read for any executive, middle-manager, or newly-hired salesperson. I found the book to reveal why I was so nervous standing in front of large groups, despite being very comfortable discussing business issues across the desk.

One of the key takeaways is the understanding I gained from what my body was telling me when I began to present. Instead of panicking, I use these cues to actually make my presentations better!

How many times have you thought well of a person or a company because their spokesperson was able to be smooth in a pressure situation in front of a group of people?

I wish I would have read this book at the beginning of my career or in college.

Finally, I found a good explanation as to why I get so nervous prior to and during a presentation. After learning that these feelings of anxiety are normal, I was able to use some of the many useful tools to minimize the effects. The step by step process for putting together a powerful and memorable presentation are priceless... as well as the techniques for handling hostile questions and gaining audience participation. I wish I knew what was in this book 20 years ago when I was starting my sales career.