This is an image on the verbal edge website. We are a communication skills training company.

Give Presentations with Confidence

Grow in Confidence with Presentation Skills Training.

Are you ready to take the stage with confidence and captivate your audience? At The Verbal Edge, we specialize in empowering professionals to master the art of public speaking and presentation skills. Elizabeth MacDonald, communication and presentation skills development trainer, provides customized training solutions, both in-person and virtually, designed to elevate your and your team’s communication prowess to new heights.

Why Should You Care about Honing Your Presentation Skills?

Imagine your team members commanding a room, effortlessly delivering impactful messages for your company or organization—mastering the art of persuasive communication. Our training programs are crafted to instill confidence and effective presentation skills, refine communication strategies, and boost your overall presentation game.

So, Why Choose The Verbal Edge for Your Training Needs?

With over a decade of experience since our inception in 2009, we’ve honed a proven methodology that combines expertise with empathy. We collaborate closely with our clients, understanding their unique challenges and objectives to deliver workshops and consultations—personalized training programs that yield tangible results.

Here's how we can help you grow in confidence with our presentation skills training:

Write Your Own Introduction

Craft a concise introduction that outlines the topic, explains its relevance to your audience, and highlights what they can learn from it. Remember, your audience wants to know why they should care about what you’re going to say. Show them why you’re uniquely qualified to deliver this presentation and why it matters. Writing your own introduction for the person introducing you will ensure that your audience will not be bored by hearing a bio. Instead, they will hear a few sentences that will expertly set the stage for your turn and your “attention grabber.”

Captivate Your Audience

The first few minutes are crucial for capturing your audience’s attention. Start with an “attention grabber”: a powerful quote, a captivating story, surprising statistics, or an intriguing comment—all to engage your audience and to reinforce purpose of your presentation. Also, promote interaction by posing thought-provoking questions that invite participation and create a dynamic atmosphere.

Be Inclusive and Tactful

In professional communication, maintaining a formal tone is essential. Avoid using informal language or gender-specific terms that may alienate certain audience members. Instead, opt for inclusive language that fosters a sense of belonging and respect for all participants. When addressing sensitive topics, approach with tact and empathy, using phrases like “You will appreciate this…” to navigate delicate situations with finesse.

Confidence Grows with Experience

Confidence comes with practice. Embrace the nerves, but refrain from announcing them to your audience. Instead, focus on delivering an impactful performance through diligent preparation and rehearsal. Professionals value speakers who are well-prepared and poised, so dedicate time to refining your delivery and mastering your material. With each presentation, you’ll grow more comfortable and confident in your abilities.

Your Journey to Presentation Prowess Starts Here!

If your goal is to unlock your or your team’s full potential as confident and compelling communicators, rely on Elizabeth MacDonald, your personal presentation skills trainer at The Verbal Edge. She will accompany you in your transformative journey toward mastering presentation skills that will set you apart in any professional setting. Contact us today to learn more about our training programs and take the first step toward communication excellence
This is an image on the verbal edge website. We are a communication skills training company.

Team Workshops

The workshops—complete with handouts—are information-rich, fast-paced, highly interactive, activity-driven, and fun. We present workshops on-site or virtually.
This is an image on the verbal edge website. We are a communication skills training company.

Consultations

Most consultations are virtual, which opens this experience to individuals world-wide. In addition to learning skills and tips tailored to their needs and situations, clients appreciate the bonus experience of a quick lesson on how to convey confidence virtually.

Meet elizabeth

I am Elizabeth MacDonald, author, presenter, and communication skills advisor. Since 2009, I have focused on enhancing the communication skills of professionals.

Influenced by two of my previous careers: TV broadcasting and teaching high school English, I set out to equip professionals with the essential skills for them to achieve their goals.

 

Owner of The Verbal Edge, am also the author of Sharpen Your Verbal Edge:101 Tips to Enhance Professional Communication Skills .

 

My extensive communication skills training and dedication to my clients’ growth are the results of communication-focused careers: 

  • TV broadcaster (Anchor, Reporter, Talk-show Host) in Fort Wayne, IN and Norfolk, VA 
  • Marketing and communication specialist: Fort Wayne Community Schools 
  • High school English teacher 

I completed my master’s degree classes and graduate orals in Broadcast Communications from San Francisco State University, and a Bachelor of Science in secondary education (English & social studies) from Indiana University.