My speech coach shook her head from side to side, frowning.

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But in fact, folks are sizing you up before you even take off your coat, says Christine K. Jahnke, a speech coach and author of the book The Well-Spoken Woman.

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School boards and administrators, when they are punishing a teacher or coach for speech in the classroom, need to be more forthright with communities about how they came about their decision, and why they feel the punishment is sufficient.

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An inspirational speech in context, say a coach to a team, can be powerful.

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The Queen plays a central ceremonial role in the state opening of Parliament, when she travels by ornate horse-drawn coach to the House of Lords to read out a speech prepared by ministers unveiling details of their legislative plans.

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In my work as a leadership communication coach, I emphasize the importance of delivering a well-written speech that has an inspiring vision, engaging stories, self-deprecating humor, and personalized examples.

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Harvard President Drew Gilpin Faust was in Seoul giving a speech during the game, but a spokesman said she followed the second half closely and called coach Tommy Amaker to congratulate the team and wish them luck in the next round.

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