by Rob Cottingham | May 21, 2014 | Speaking, Speechwriting
When I arrived at Jilin, I found that one panelist […] had a conflict and had to cancel [….] But when [the other panelist] showed up at Jilin University’s Friendship Guesthouse, he said he wasn’t planning to talk about Snowden; he thought he was speaking on conflict resolution.So that left me with two hours to … Continue reading →
by Rob Cottingham | Jan 28, 2014 | Speaking, Speechwriting
More than 50 lies, half-truths, and instances of disingenuous spin. Rob Ford’s speech lasted 16 minutes, therefore Rob Ford took liberties with reality, on average, three times per minute. And that was in a speech where nobody asked him about drugs, alcohol, or criminal behaviour. via Torontoist One crucial thing speechwriters need to remember: the … Keep reading →
by Rob Cottingham | Aug 21, 2013 | Speaking, Speechwriting
Sophomore Georgia Tech student Nick Selby welcomed this year’s first-year students in unforgettable style. There are lots of things a speaker or speechwriter could take from this clip: the use of crescendo, knowing your material cold, owning the stage, using... by Rob Cottingham | Jul 2, 2013 | Communicating, Speaking, Speechwriting
This was my speech capping off a wonderful evening of presentations hosted by the IABC/BC. It’s all about embracing regret and seizing opportunity. A quick speechwriting note: Normally I’m a strong (even harsh) advocate of diving right into what you want... by Rob Cottingham | Jun 6, 2013 | Speaking, Vancouver
I’m going to be emceeing (take that, autocorrect!) the IABC/BC Bronze Quill awards next Wednesday night, June 12, at the swishy Renaissance Vancouver Harbourside. (For everyone who is suddenly consumed with anxiety at that news, the organizers have spoken with... by Rob Cottingham | May 16, 2013 | Communicating, Speaking
Back in April, I got to join a lineup of communications professionals, sharing our experiences and career life lessons at an evening of storytelling hosted by IABC/BC. The evening surpassed every expectation I had. Each of the presenters spoke with passion and often...