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Speaker & behavioural psychology expert

Peter Collett

Transform communication effectiveness with Dr Peter Collett, speaker and behavioural psychology expert. Peter works with global organisations to decode body language, improve leadership communication and enhance cultural intelligence, delivering research-backed insights for clients including Unilever, HSBC and Barclays Wealth.

Trusted by Unilever, HSBC, Barclays Wealth

Peter Collett, Speaker | Expert in Body Language
Peter Collett

Peter Collett

Oxford, United Kingdom

Typical fee range

£6–10k

This is an estimated fee range for local in-person events. Location and format affect the final fee.

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Oxford, United Kingdom

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Peter Collett's biography

At a glance

  • Expert on body language and non-verbal communication
  • Author of The Book of Tells
  • Resident psychologist on Big Brother series
Dr Peter Collett is a behavioural psychologist and a former member of the Department of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University. Throughout his distinguished career, Peter has built a reputation as a leading expert on communication, particularly body language, culture, and human interaction. His insightful work has made him a highly sought-after speaker and consultant across various industries. Peter's extensive research, combined with his background in academia, provides him with a unique perspective on how individuals and organisations can understand and improve their communication. Having spent years researching the psychological underpinnings of body language, management styles, and cultural differences, he has developed expertise that resonates both in professional and public spheres. He is especially known for his ability to decode non-verbal communication, revealing how subtle gestures and expressions can reflect deeper emotional and psychological states. Over the years, Peter has written several influential books, including The Book of Tells, which has been translated into multiple languages, and Gestures: Their Origins and Distribution, co-authored with Desmond Morris. His television appearances have further solidified his status as an expert, notably as the resident psychologist on Big Brother for its first four series, as well as his appearances on major networks such as Newsnight, This Morning, and Sky News. His series Body Talk on Channel 4 garnered significant attention for its sharp insights into body language, drawing praise from critics and the public alike. Peter’s work extends beyond academia and media, offering consultancy and training to a wide range of organisations, including global corporations like Unilever, Barclays Wealth, and HSBC. His ability to identify and apply psychological principles to the business world has helped organisations refine their communication strategies and improve leadership effectiveness. With a career defined by deep knowledge, public influence, and practical application, Peter Collett remains a leading figure in the field of behavioural psychology.

Dr Peter's showreel and videos

Topics, sessions and talks

Embodied Leadership
Dr Peter Collett's seminar on embodied leadership explores the essential qualities of effective leaders, emphasising the importance of appearance and communication. He discusses "power talk" and "power walk," highlighting how specific language and body language can enhance a leader's credibility. Attendees will learn how to project dominance while remaining approachable, understand the impact of their behaviour, and adopt the traits necessary to inspire others to follow them.
Reading Other People
Dr Peter Collett emphasises the importance of reading others for effective leadership. He explores unintentional clues in communication, including phrases, voice modulation, and body language, particularly signs of anxiety or deception. Attendees will learn to identify indicators of dishonesty and emotional faking, as well as interpersonal strategies like ingratiation and flattery used to influence others. By understanding these dynamics, leaders can enhance their ability to connect with board members, clients, and colleagues, ultimately improving their leadership effectiveness.
Embracing Change
Dr Peter Collett's seminar, "Embracing Change," highlights the importance of adaptability for individuals and organisations. Drawing on Charles Darwin's insights, he emphasises that those who can adjust their strategies are more likely to thrive in unpredictable environments. The session will cover concepts like "niche fitness" and "adaptive fitness," exploring traits such as pragmatism, creativity, and resilience. Attendees will learn practical strategies to enhance their adaptability and effectiveness in a rapidly changing world.
Meeting Challenges
Dr Peter Collett explores how individuals and organisations respond to challenges, which is vital for their success. He discusses the common reactions to threats - freeze, flight, or fight - and how these can impact morale, sales, and brand reputation. Peter emphasises the importance of maintaining a realistic yet positive attitude while focusing on practical solutions. Attendees will learn how to navigate challenges effectively and the crucial role of emotions and management in fostering stability.
Global Effectiveness
Dr Peter Collett's seminar on global effectiveness equips attendees with the skills to navigate diverse business cultures. Participants will learn to interpret foreign conventions, actions, and body language, gaining insights into the thoughts and intentions of international colleagues. By adopting a new perspective, they will identify key behaviours to embrace or avoid, enhancing their interpersonal skills. Ultimately, attendees will leave with the confidence and understanding needed to project authority and foster trust in various cultural contexts, paving their way to becoming effective global managers.

Why we recommend booking Dr Peter

Unlock the secrets of communication with Peter Collett, a renowned behavioural psychologist and former Oxford don. His insights on body language and management style help teams navigate challenges effectively. Book now to enhance your organisation's communication skills.

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Trusted by Unilever, HSBC, Barclays Wealth

Testimonials

Many thanks for your excellent presentation at our London Conference last week. It was delivered with great style and we received very favorable feedback. Of course, you have made us all very self conscious of our stance, method of walking, tilt of head etc. It is a fascinating topic and I will now try to pay more attention to the signals I receive when talking to people.

Martin Barnes

Chief Economist, BCA Research

It was a real honor and pleasure working with Peter and the event was a real success. After the conference we have received very good feedback and this is a sign that Peter is very welcome in Romania and the topics discussed during the conference were extremely appreciated by the audience…He was absolutely fantastic during the conference and as you mentioned, I also believe that he has a lot of other interesting subjects to present.

Cristine Costin

Exective Partner, Twelve Corporate

Featured Projects

Peter Collett - The Book Of Tells: How To Read People’s Minds From Their Actions book cover
Peter Collett - Uncovered: Body Language Secrets book cover
Peter Collett - Foreign Bodies: A Guide To European Mannerisms book cover

frequently asked questions

Something we've not covered here?

How do I book Peter Collett for my next event?
Email peter.collett@getapeptalk.com or call PepTalk on +44 20 3835 2929 (UK) or +1 737 888 5112 (US), and one of our speaker agents will contact you within hours to confirm Dr Peter's availability and fees. If you can, please include your budget upfront – it helps us fast-track your request. It’s also helpful to know the date, format (virtual or in-person), location, and a bit about your audience.

What is Peter Collett's speaking style like?
Peter Collett structures his sessions around the identification and decoding of non-verbal cues, drawing on his academic research in behavioural psychology to give attendees a framework for reading body language, voice modulation, and behavioural patterns in real-world leadership and communication contexts.

What topics does Peter Collett specialise in?
Dr Peter Collett's sessions address embodied leadership, reading non-verbal and verbal cues in others, and adapting to change. He is a former member of the Department of Experimental Psychology at Oxford University and served as resident psychologist on Big Brother for its first four series.

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There is no additional cost to you beyond the speaker's fee. PepTalk's service, from shortlist to on-the-day logistics, is included. For repeat or multi-event bookings, the team can agree preferential rates with your procurement department. Email hello@getapeptalk.com to discuss.

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Can PepTalk help plan the speaker programme for my event?

Yes. Beyond booking a single speaker, PepTalk helps shape a full programme, matching voices to your agenda, audience, and goals across a day or a series. It is a consultative service, not just a booking. Tell us about your event at getapeptalk.com.

What does 'typical fee range' mean?

Speaker fees vary based on factors like event location, format, and availability. The 'typical fee range' figure gives you a baseline of someone's local, in-person rate sits, and we'll confirm the exact fee when you get in touch.

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What's the difference between a keynote speaker, an MC, and event entertainment?

A keynote speaker delivers an inspiring or informative talk. An MC hosts and guides the event, keeping things on track. Entertainment — like a band or comedian — creates atmosphere and fun. Each serves a different purpose, and PepTalk can help you book the right talent for all three.

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Life happens! Most speaker bookings can be rescheduled with reasonable notice. Cancellation terms vary by speaker, but PepTalk handles all the details & contracts transparently upfront so there are no surprises. Our team supports you through any changes, making the process as smooth as possible.

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Not necessarily. While the speakers listed on our website may not have worked with PepTalk in the past, they are recognized professionals in the industry and known to engage in similar events and engagements. Alongside direct talent, we work with a wide variety of speaker agents and talent agencies, to ensure we have the best selection of speakers, hosts, comedians and entertainers available.

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When booking a comedian, share your event format, audience size and demographics, any sensitive topics to avoid, and the tone you're after. PepTalk makes this easy — their booking process guides you through a simple checklist so nothing gets missed and your comedian is perfectly matched to your crowd.

What information do I need to provide when booking a speaker?

When booking a speaker, you'll need your event date, audience details, format, key objectives, and budget. Having these ready makes the process smooth and straightforward. PepTalk's team uses this information to match you with the perfect speaker quickly and efficiently.

Can I book entertainment and speakers as a package?

Yes! At PepTalk, you can absolutely bundle entertainment and speakers into one seamless package. It's a great way to create a fuller event experience while enjoying simplified booking and better value. Our team handles everything together, making the process effortless for you.

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Sorry, we do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, or any non-commercial contact with the speakers, comedians or entertainers.

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