62. Your Technical Communication Needs Scheduled Maintenance

*“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.”* — Will Durant, American philosopher and historian.    As I write this, I am sitting in the dealership where I have brought my SUV in for its 60,000-mile maintenance. Most people agree that to keep your car running as long as possible, you need regular maintenance. However, how many of us technical types realize that, to maintain excellent technical communication skills, we also need scheduled maintenance? Your technical communication skills deserve the same attention to ensure every presentation delivers maximum impact. In this week's podcast, you will discover three ways to maintain peak performance in your technical speaking. ***References*** - Gallo, Carmine. (September 9, 2019). "How to Rehearse for an Important Presentation." Harvard Business Review. Explains the importance of systematic rehearsal and reviewing recorded presentations. Read article. - Toastmasters International. (2023). "Expert Advice for Evaluations." Toastmaster Magazine. Describes structured feedback and continuous improvement through speech evaluations. Read article. - MIT Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Communication Lab. "Slide Presentation." Guides technical presentation design, equipment preparation, and handling audience questions. Read guide. - MIT Electrical Engineering and Computer Science Communication Lab. "Virtual Presentations." Recommends practicing delivery, checking technology, and evaluating presentation clarity. Read guide. - Toastmasters International. "How to Write and Deliver a Speech." Provides practical techniques for vocal variety, recording presentations, and gathering feedback. Read guide. © 2026 DiBartolomeo Consulting International (DCI), LLC. All Rights Reserved. May not be used without permission.