Unfortunately, public speaking is not something that comes naturally to most of us. Without prior training in the basics of timing, body language, humour, organisation and all the other skills that go into the act of public speaking, even the smartest, liveliest and most articulate individual can wither in the glare of "the spotlight".
What Do Audiences Want?
• To feel you 'know your stuff'
• That you look the part
• That you respect them and acknowledge their situation and views
• To find what you say links with what they want from you
• To have sufficient information to make a considered judgement about what you say (they will 'weigh it up')
• To be clear about any action necessary - at the end
And above all to find it understandable, interesting and a good fit with the audience and the occasion.
And What They Most Definitely Do Not Want
• To be confused
• To be blinded with science / technicalities or jargon
• 'Lost' in the structure (or lack of it)
• To be talked down to
• To be made to struggle to understand inappropriate language
• To be made to make an enormous jump to relate what is said to their circumstances
And they do not want to listen to someone whose lack of preparation makes it clear they have no respect for the audience. As with most things in life, preparation and planning is everything.
It is important to remember that as the presenter or speaker, we are there for our audience, they are not there for us - we must earn the right to be standing in front of them, by proving our credibility.
If you would like a complimentary copy of my E-book, "Professional Presentations - How To Prepare & Deliver A Compelling Presentation" simply use the Contact form here
Alternatively, you will find a selection of articles on this topic here and here
Today's News: A number of the Top Sales Experts team have got together to produce a great new series of teleseminars - "Hear It From The Experts" The line-up includes Wendy Weiss, Cheryl Clausen, Diane Helbig, Mark Hunter, Karl Goldberg and many more. Best of all it's absolutely FREE and you can register here
Finally, a great post from the great man in Texas: "Skeptical?"
Tomorrow: I am on my travels, but I will certainly be back on Monday and hope you will be too - I have always wondered what you do at weekends without the JF Blogit to read? Do you have withdrawal symptoms?
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