Tap into the powerful techniques of professional actors and great communicators

The Pin Drop Principle is a step-by-step master class for anyone wishing to become a more confident and credible communicator. Lewis and Mills believe all business professionals ought to deliver their message in such an engaging way that one could literally hear a pin drop when they speak. The secret to doing so comes from an unusual world: professional acting. By activating "objective" and "intention"the main tools of actors (and great communicators)business people can give their messages meaning and relevance, so the recipients walk away knowing why the message is important and what is in it forthem.

Empowers business professionals with performance-based delivery techniquesfrom storytelling to vocal dynamicsessential to becoming a great communicatorWritten for anyone wishing to engage listeners, establish instant credibility, influence key decision makers, and create a positive lasting impressionBased on the Pinnacle Method, one of the most popular and groundbreaking communication skills training methods

The Pin Drop Principle is an accessible resource for anyone who routinely needs to present ideas to large or small groups, convey feedback effectively, conduct difficult conversations, and persuade others.

DAVID LEWIS andG. RILEY MILLS are cofounders of Pinnacle Performance Company, a global training firm that teaches the Pinnacle Method to thousands of professionals each year. Lewis is a former Fortune 500 executive, film producer, and screen actor. Mills is a regular speaker and award-winning writer with twenty years of professional acting experience.

Introduction 1

1 Understand the Secrets of Persuasion 13Communicating with Intention and Objective

2 Tell a Good Story 29Using Personal Experiences to Inspire and Persuade

3 Craft a Compelling Narrative 47Building the Framework to Support Your Message

4 Be Prepared 71Managing Nerves and Controlling Anxiety

5 Project Confidence 91Expressing Your Intention Nonverbally

6 Say It Like You Mean It 119Using Your Voice to Influence

7 Listen to Understand 139Maximizing Comprehension and Retention

8 Think on Your Feet 157Mastering Impromptu Speaking in Any Situation

9 Stay Focused and On Track 173Handling Questions and Controlling Your Audience

10 Assert Yourself 195Gaining Commitment, Providing Feedback, and Delivering Difficult News

Conclusion 219 Notes 221 Glossary of Terms 231 Acknowledgments 239 About the Authors 241 Index 243