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.

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 13
Communicating with Intention and Objective

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

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

4 Be Prepared 71
Managing Nerves and Controlling Anxiety

5 Project Confidence 91
Expressing Your Intention Nonverbally

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

7 Listen to Understand 139
Maximizing Comprehension and Retention

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

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

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

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