John Zimmer

I have always had a love for, and appreciation of, good public speaking. Think back to a great speech that you heard. Perhaps it was inspiring; perhaps it was heart-rending; perhaps it was hilarious. Regardless of their subject-matter, all great speeches have one thing in common: they captivate their audiences for whom time momentarily stands still.

I have been speaking in public – in one way or another – for most of my life. My parents always said I was talkative as a child, which I think is a nice way of saying that I never shut up! Fate led me to law school where I developed a great interest in oral advocacy. Twice I represented my law school in mooting competitions, and the second time saw my team win the national championship for Canadian law schools.

As a lawyer, I had the great fortune to work at a law firm that specialized in litigation. I learned much from my senior colleagues, and they helped me to develop my confidence and my style. After many years, I made the transition from private practice to public international law at the United Nations where I gained invaluable experience speaking before international audiences.

I have had the good fortune to do well in several Toastmasters public speaking contests at the Continental European level.

My hope is that this blog will provide similar assistance to others. So please stay awhile and have a look around the site; with luck you will find something useful or at least amusing.