Originally published April 14, 2015 in the Winnipeg Free Press

Regardless of the type of speech or presentation that we are doing, humour can be an effective way to draw our audience in and to make an instant connection with them. For a lot of people an attempt at humour in front of a crowd can be a daunting experience. It becomes even more daunting when they are drafting the humour themselves instead of just trying to repeat jokes.

Crafting and delivering humour that is relevant and pivotal to your presentation is indeed a valuable skill. It is a skill however that can be developed, practiced and mastered by  anyone willing to try.

Gene Perret, an Emmy Award winning writer who has written for legendary comics such as Bob Hope, Phyllis Diller and Carol Burnett has a 10 point checklist to help correct flaws so that your humour will be effective:
1. Does your humour end with a surprise?
2. Is your humour based on recognizable reality?
3. Can you be heard and understood?
4. Is your humour current?
5. Is your humour concise?
6. Does your humour create a vivid image?
7. Are you letting the audience know when to laugh?
8. Are your references applicable and appropriate?
9. Is your humour right for this audience?
10. Is your humour clever and incisive?

Being part of a Toastmasters club allows you an opportunity to develop your communication and leadership skills and a place to find your funny!

There are Toastmasters meetings every day of the week (day and evening) in Manitoba and North-West Ontario that would welcome you. Go to www.toastmasters.org/findaclub or call 204-338-7401 to find out more. No experience necessary.