How do you capture & inspire your audience no matter what the topic?You have 15 seconds to engage their interest - don't waste it!
When you stand up to deliver a speech or presentation you only have 15 seconds to fully engage your audience.That is how long it takes them to decide whether or not you are really worth listening to!
The impression you make is just as important as what you say so be very aware of your body language, voice & projection.Body language and delivery are vitally.They account for 93% of the impact of your presentation!
There are so many talks and presentations being delivered out there that could be subtitled:Enough about me, what do you think of me?
If you use the word I more than your use 'you', YOU are in trouble!To use current retail jargon, you need to be customer-focused if you want to help and make an impact.
As with media interviews, I believe practice is the best way to improve your skills.If you feel unsure about a presentation or speech, get some impartial advice BEFORE you throw yourself in at the deep end.
To use a skiing analogy, try starting on the nursery slopes.Talk to a small, local group whose members you already know.Then you can gradually build up to Earls Court or Wembley arena!
Hit them with your headline!What is the most important or interesting thing you have to tell us?Get that in first.It acts like your headline, and headlines come at the top of the story, not buried paragraphs below in the afterthoughts section!
Remember the importance of 'color', imagery & metaphor.Statistics do not make a presentation memorable. Painting word-pictures in people's minds does.Give them something visual, auditory and/or touchy-feely right up front and you will get them on your side.
I know bang on a lot about the T.R.U.T.H. test. BUT, it is crucial here.So many folks are so busy telling us things we do not need to know right now and forgetting what should be the main focus.THINK LIKE A JOURNALIST!
Effective presentations are memorable because both the presenter and the subject matter are interesting & accessible.It is vitally important that you start off on a strong note and make every word count.
Need help with writing or delivering presentations, talks and speeches? Give me a call!
‘Julia successfully helps you handle the emotional process that any public speaking brings up, with the tools and encouraging coaching to make you realize you can succeed.’ Vicki Van Praag, Life Coach
