How do we separate real from fake? Thora Tenbrink, Professor of Linguistics at Bangor University researched this very topic. Her findings-- and ours will ensure that you’ll never exhibit signs of fakery when you speak.

Be worthy: Speak from knowledge and experience. Then have a clear objective of what you want to achieve.

Serve and Volley: Elicit comments, especially in a conversation. If you talk over others, you’ll appear to be driving an agenda.

Use specifics: Fakes can only speak in broad strokes and generalities. Employ details-- especially in your client anecdotes and examples.

Embrace uncertainty: If a fact or position is debatable or not yet proven, say so.

Ignore outdated methodology: If you gesture in a prescribed way, assume an overly formal demeanor, or follow someone else’s playbook, you will be perceived as disingenuous. Show up as the best version of yourself.

Make it Useful: Give your audience what they need, want and can immediately apply.

Remember the Latin phrase Semper Verum or Always True.