Telling Your StoryAdapted from presentations by Debra Engle

(Golden Tree Communications)

Writing Tips

• Simplify your message (magazine style).o What is the take-away?o Is there practical application? o What problem does this solve?

• Write a draft and then have people ask questions.

• Be specific. What do you remember from general information?

• Keep sentences and paragraphs short.

• Use everyday languageo Use slang such as “comfy.”o Start sentences with “and” and

“but.” Sentence fragments are okay.o Use contractions.o Incorporate humor.

• Use a conversational tone.o Think of one person when writing.o Speak directly to your audience.

• Use active rather than passivevoice.

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From mug shot to marvelous

Remember the value of a smile...

...posture...

...and a comfortable position.

Photo Options

Cropping option

Improve Your Image

1. Find an interesting background.2. Provide a shirt, sweater or scarf if needed. 3. Choose a spot with natural lighting. 4. Shoot from an angle rather than straight on. 5. Have your subject sit or do something comfortable with their arms.

Posture matters.6. Get them laughing!7. Get up-close and personal.8. Capture emotion.

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