by Maria Wilhelmsson | Mar 15, 2021 | Executive presence, Influencing skills, Public speaking
We all know what it’s like to sit through boring presentations and meetings being force-fed facts and figures. We start daydreaming, checking our e-mail, send a text message, or even fall asleep. From the speaker’s point of view, it’s not that fun either. Seeing a sea... 
by Maria Wilhelmsson | Jan 19, 2021 | Communication, Executive presence, Public speaking, Speaking anxiety
Being one of four daughters of hard-working parents, getting somebody’s undivided attention was rare when I was a child. Until when at age seven I was asked to sing solo at the school end-of-year festivities. Suddenly all eyes and all ears were on me –... 
by Maria Wilhelmsson | Dec 12, 2020 | Executive presence, Public speaking, Voice
Human beings can survive without food for weeks, without water for days, but without air only for a few minutes. Our breath is the source of our life as well as the source of our voice. Yet, the breath is one of the first things to be affected by stress and distress... 
by Maria Wilhelmsson | Oct 26, 2020 | Public speaking, Voice
Not enough sleep, too much travel, a budding cold, or simply a lack of motivation? Your voice is a sensitive barometer that quickly gives away your physical and emotional state. Yet, in the harsh reality of life we often need to sound engaged and convincing also when... 
by Maria Wilhelmsson | Sep 9, 2020 | Body language, Executive presence, Influencing skills, Public speaking
If you have ever been around a great leader – be it a boss, a parent, a famous politician – you will have experienced their embodied presence. The way they enter the room, the way they command respect as they speak, and the way they make you feel seen and... 
by Maria Wilhelmsson | Sep 1, 2020 | Communication, Public speaking
No, I’m not talking about the drink. And yes, I am against violence in the workplace or anywhere else. But I’m also against imposing unnecessary boredom on people and alienating your audience within the first minute of your presentation. If you want people...