By writing or speaking for ear, I mean that spoken words can have more power than written words. After all, when we have important messages, we prefer to deliver them verbally and personally, rather than by sending a written message.

Of course, it's not practical or possible to deliver every message verbally. But, if we can capture some of nuances of spoken word we can increase power of our messages. When we write for ear, our writing undergoes some subtle but important changes. Our words, sentences, and paragraphs change in several ways.

Consider number of pauses that occur when we speak. Most of us pause often, more often than when we write. To capture those pauses, use commas or one of other 'slowing' punctuation marks, such as colons and semicolons.

Writing for ear also means shorter sentences. And even fragments of sentences. As you can imagine, speech tends to greater spontaneity than written expression, which means shorter sentences and more fragments.

Many of same principles hold when we make formal speeches or presentations. Especially if we speak from prepared notes.

Whatever we say, when we speak publicly, has to go in through listeners' ears. And so, if you'll allow me to belabor obvious, we need to write speeches for listeners' ears, not our mouths.

1. Use “Rule of 3.” The most successful speakers limit their remarks to three major points. Here is where you use your signature stories (your own personal stories) to support your points and help people visualize what you are saying.

2. Every five to seven minutes, back up your facts with signature stories (about you or others). Stories are out there everywhere. Find them in stores, at restaurants, on airplane, at home. People retain information better when they hear a story.

3. How quickly do you get to core of your audience’s problems and challenges? Skip what is between their ears and go straight to their hearts.

4. Practice pausing before and after important points. Don’t be afraid to leave open space. The use of silence is a key requirement to becoming an effective speaker.

5. People delineate their thoughts visually. Speakers are to words as an artist is to a painting.