The word ‘tax’ comes from Latin and originally means “to touch”. How do you go about touching your audience? Do tell a tender tale, or do you randomly poke and prod them with your message? You can levy levity, impose interest and write off your
worries when your share your words like a warm handshake.

Most one-on-one contact beginswith a hand shake. Depending on your friends‟ social graces, first encounters will also begin with an introduction. Introductions set the stage for getting acquainted. Take the time to write up your introduction
and have someone introduce you to your audience. By establishing your purpose and credentials upfront you avoid being written off before you even begin.

Telling a story is an excellent way to connect with your audience, just make sure it is your story. It is tempting to retell
a tale which you found touching to make your point; however, it is never as effective as sharing your story. In fact, if anyone else
could be sharing the same story it is best not to tell it at all. When a story touches you it is because you can see a part of yourself within it. Have the courage to discover, and share, this connection.

Don‟t penalize your listener‟s interest by poking them in the ear with jokes designed to demonstrate your wit. Listening to someone who thinks they are funny is terribly taxing. Allow your humor to arise out of your desire to reconcile what you profess with what you produce.

The right touch will never tax your audience and can often turn a handshake into a heartfelt hug. When your listeners are kind enough to pay attention to you, repay their interest by tendering a talk which does not tax their investment.