(pictured in Albany, **David N. Biette** and then-Assemblyman Zohran Mamdani)

Happy New Year!

I know many of my readers were looking forward to 2026, and happy to show 2025 the door!

If your new year began with resolutions that include self-improvement or professional development goals, specifically around better communications, let me offer an approach that will serve you well—snd has been a proven winner!I

So, here it is again. With one big tip for becoming a better speaker in 2026:
Always remember that the most important word in a speaker’s vocabulary is YOU.

When speakers rely on “I” language they turn an opportunity for connection into a broadcast event. If you want your audience to hear you, they need to feel like you understand them—or at least understand where they are coming from.

Remember the Number One Rule for Speakers? Know your audience.

Yes, if you have answers for them, by all means share! But make sure they are specific answers to problems they have.

Last fall’s NYC mayoral campaign provided us with an excellent example of this. Did Mayor Mamdani ever said the word “platform”? He talked about “solutions” and “working for you.” Voters felt he got them. And they liked it!

Centering your audience—meeting them where they are—that is a powerful tool for speakers everywhere!

I’m always happy to do a deeper dive on how you can step up to your current communications challenges. Or any new ones 2026 will bring. I have relocated to the DC metro area but have mastered the art of the Zoom session. I also travel to clients frequently. Reach out to me: ann@anntimmons.com or 703-244-7546.