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Do you believe that public speaking is the number one fear amongst humans?
I’ve heard people express their concerns of having to get up in front of a crowd then there are others who love the opportunity to be centre stage.
To be a great speaker requires an understanding of the audience, significant preparation, knowledge of both the material and how to deliver it charismatically. Great speakers are no accident. They are an art form. They just make it look easy.
In fact, the list of what it takes to be dynamic and effective goes on way past those few points but I think it’s the thought of looking foolish (our REAL #1 fear) that keeps people from wanting to step out of their comfort zone and in front of the room.
That’s a shame really, because everyone has something valuable to share.
And being a great presenter can be learned.
From an audience’s perspective they WANT you to feel comfortable!
The audience WANTS you to succeed.
They WANT you to be your best and for them to learn, laugh and cry right along with you.
Aha – the greatest gift you bring to the room is yourself
Authenticity is a quality often overlooked when assessing a good presentation but if you don’t believe in, or are not congruent with your material the audience will pick up on it.
They say that the audience won’t remember all of what you said but they will remember how you made them feel.
It’s tough to measure passion and respect but they’re super detectable by instinct.
As humans, most information we’ll learn will be delivered by other humans. Whether it’s from books, webinars, YouTube videos, seminars, workshops, roundtables at home or in the workplace. We learn from one another.
When you share a piece of yourself and first make a connection with your audience – let them get to know you a little – they’ll likely want to listen to more of what you have to say.
And isn’t that a win-win?
When you have that urge to share your brilliance or lead a crowd – even if it’s just a crowd of three – get yourself ready then step confidently into the role.
You will affect us like no one else can.
Lights, please!