Presentation Skills for Quivering Wrecks by
Bob Etherington
Summary
In Presentation Skills for Quivering Wrecks, Bob Etherington demystifies public speaking and equips nervous presenters with the tools they need to succeed. Written with wit, compassion, and practicality, the book tackles the psychological blocks and tactical errors that plague inexperienced speakers. At its heart is a reassuring message: great presentations are not about talent, they’re about (guess what!) preparation and practice.
Key Insights
Mindset and Psychology
- Most people want the presentation to be over—including the audience!
- Audiences buy in emotionally, not rationally—speak to their feelings.
- Your audience always asks: “What’s in it for me?”—answer that.
- The brain can’t distinguish between real and imagined events.
- Visualisation works: imagine yourself calm, confident, and smiling.
- Imagination trumps willpower—see yourself succeeding.
Preparation and Structure
- The slideshow is not the presentation—you are.
- Rehearse thoroughly: at home, on video, and ideally at the venue.
- Know your:
- Goal
- Audience
- Content rationale
- Opening
- Closing
- Key excitement points
- Have a single, precise goal: “The point of this presentation is…”
- People remember the first and last things you say—plan them carefully.
- Use “Finally, in conclusion…” to re-capture attention.
Communication and Delivery
- Speak in the language of the audience.
- Say “What questions do you have?”, not “Do you have any questions?”
- Use stories to convey information memorably.
- Avoid “I” and “me”—speak in terms of “you”.
Body Language and Tone
- How you act and sound is more important than your words.
- Visuals (55%) and tone (38%) outweigh content (7%) in what’s remembered.
- Don’t fiddle—pause, breathe, and take your time.
- Adopt confident body language: arms apart, palms visible, head up, smile.
- “Slow and low” = power.
Other notes
- People buy emotionally—speak to feelings
- “What’s in it for me?” is the key question
- Visualisation works—brain treats it as real
- “Slow and low” = power
- Speak in audience’s language
- Rehearse—especially at the venue
- Slide deck is not the presentation—you are
Strengths
- Encouraging Tone:
The book is reassuring without being patronising—perfect for beginners. - Practical Focus:
Real-world tips, not theory—like using Chatham House Rules to create safe discussion spaces. - Memorable Advice:
Etherington’s principles are easy to remember and apply quickly.
Weaknesses
- Limited Depth:
Experienced speakers may find it basic; this is squarely aimed at novices. - Repetitive at Times:
A few ideas are reiterated more than necessary, though this may help nervous readers retain them.
Reflections
Etherington makes a crucial distinction: presenting is not about performing—it’s about communicating. The real goal is to connect with your audience, make them feel seen, and deliver something of value.
The book is strongest where it tackles fear with preparation: “It will NOT be alright on the night.” The antidote is rehearsal, rehearsal, rehearsal. And not just anywhere, rehearse at the venue.
Conclusion
Presentation Skills for Quivering Wrecks is a confidence-building guide for the nervous speaker. It won’t make you perfect overnight, but it will make you prepared. And in presentations, preparation beats perfection every time.
Book Details
Title: Presentation Skills for Quivering Wrecks
Author: Bob Etherington
Publication Year: 2006
Genre: CommunicaEon and PresentaEon
Reference: Skills for Quivering Wrecks