88 How to Sell Yourself
Using the preceding two para-
graphs as an example, here’s how I
recommend putting your text on
paper. If it looks like this, you’ll be
making your job a lot easier.
- Write short sentences.
- The longest sentence
should cover no more
than two lines of type. - Use large type.
- Use periods.
- Substitute periods for
other punctuation.
Again, I’m not saying you must write simple sentences.
I’m saying simplify your sentences.
Now let’s try that text using the rhythm of eye contact. Look
at the audience as you deliver each sentence from the text. Pause
and look down when you come to each period. See what the next
idea is. Then look up and deliver that thought. When you’ve com-
pletely finished the thought to the audience, pause again. Look
down in silence. When the next thought is firmly in your mind,
look up. Don’t start until you’re looking at someone, and then
deliver the whole idea to the audience.
Here goes: Say the emphasized sentences to the audience. Use
the italicized text to look down and get the next thought.
- Write short sentences.
Pause. Look down. See the next thought. Now look up
and say: - No sentence should cover more than two lines of type.
Pause. Look down. Pick up the next sentence. Look up
and say: - Use periods.
Pause. Don’t say anything until you’re ready to look up
and say: - Substitute periods for other punctuation.
Pause. Look down. See what you’re going to say next.
What on earth am I doing here?