Chapter 9. There Is a Difference Between Speaking and Writing

Before you decide to gather people in one room and speak to them, consider whether you really need to give a presentation. Alternative communication channels may be more useful, productive, and efficient. They may be less expensive, as well.

Think for a minute about the essential differences between speaking and writing: Writing produces a permanent record and can be used to convey great detail. It’s often much more precise than a spoken presentation and can be used to carefully control wording. Speaking, on the other hand, produces a richer context, including nonverbal cues. It seems less rigid, less permanent, and may be more effective.

If you plan to gather a group of employees to ...

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