Last weeks tip was all about using quotes from your customers and clients. And I have to tell you; I got quite a few comments asking for help. The recurring gist was, “Tell me what to do if I don’t have any client quotes yet.”

Here’s an alternative route to add spice to your presentations: use quotes from famous and influential people. Use quotes from other leaders. Leaders in your industry, thought leaders, and philosophers all have made great statements that can serve to build your credibility.

Just a few helpful tips to make sure that your quotes are rock solid:

Tip 1: Prepare for a diverse audience
The easiest way to do this is to have a diverse mix of quotes from a diverse group of people. Mix it up–some men, some women, different ages, cultures and industries. That way, you don’t have to go searching for audience-specific quotes each time, but the balance will appeal to a wide range of people.

Tip 2: Give credit
Always say where the quote came from. Give credit to the person who said the idea, insight or phrase.

Tip 3: Avoid common quotes
You know the ones that everyone has already heard. If everyone already knows the quote (or if the presenter before you just used your best one) you’ll just get bored groans instead of interest.

My favorite site for wonderful quotations from thousands of famous people is at http://www.brainyquote.com

Here’s one I just found today:

“There are always three speeches, for every one you actually gave. The one you practiced, the one you gave, and the one you wish you gave.”
—Dale Carnegie

Find the quote that just makes the difference. See what you can do today to make the presentation you give today the very special one you imagine.

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