If you are invited to speak on a panel and think you can just “wing it” …think again. Almost everyone is aware that a formal presentation requires preparation and rehearsal, but it’s easy to forget that “doing your homework” can ensure your success in any speaking situation, including a panel discussion. As a panelist – […]
Read More...How to Write A Good Acceptance Speech: Great Example
How do you write a good acceptance speech? Start early, be yourself, honor those who’ve helped you, state your connection to the organization giving you the award, and rehearse…again…again and again. Every year the American Payroll Association honors their Man and Woman of the Year. The next year at the annual conference call Congress they […]
Read More...Can A Billionaire Give You Presentation Advice?
Speech coach and author Gary Genard is a great blogger. In a recent post, Gary discusses Sir Richard Branson’s advice on public speaking. Branson, the entrepreneur, adventurer, humanitarian, and founder of the Virgin Group, explained his approach to presentations in an article called, “My Top Tips for Public Speaking,” on the Virgin website. Branson declared, […]
Read More...Conquer Professional Speaking to Amplify Your Coaching Business
What would it mean to you if you could Amplify Your Coaching Business? If every time you presented to a client you were powerfully persuasive, clearly concise, and capable of inspiring your clients to take action? What would it mean to your business if you could land multiple clients from a single presentation? The more […]
Read More...So You Are Nervous About Your Upcoming Speech?
Perhaps you can relate to this situation: “Hi, Fripp! Next week I’m invited to deliver a speech to a 500-person audience, and it’s been six months since I’ve spoken in public. What are your suggestions to help me be less nervous?” No matter how seasoned you are, it’s still natural to feel some apprehension at […]
Read More...Rock Star Communication: How to Steal the Show Every Time 3 of 4
Even highly intelligent, well-educated, and ambitious executives can find themselves at a loss when called on to deliver a powerful presentation. The good news is, even if you’re not a born speaker, you can learn how to inspire action and commitment. I share the ROCK Star Principles one shy engineer used – and you can […]
Read More...Is That Great Speaker Really You? It Can Be Here is How
If you have one of your past presentations recorded, watch it. Take notes on what you do well and what you believe you could do better. When you’re watching your recorded presentation, it’s a good idea to pretend you’re watching somebody else. This allows you to be more objective. What did this speaker do right? […]
Read More...Rock Star Communication: How to Steal the Show Every Time 2 of 4
If you think you can use the first 45 seconds with an audience to “warm up,” think again! Use your opening to immediately engage your audience, so they realize from your first words, “Wow! This is going to be good!” In an era of tough competition, presentations that persuade, educate, motivate, and inspire give you […]
Read More...Rock Star Communication: How to Steal The Show Every Time 1 of 4
In an era of tough competition, presentations that persuade, educate, motivate, and inspire give you a competitive edge. Good presentation skills are no longer simply nice to have; they can mean career life or death. When you have an upcoming presentation, you must rehearse to ensure your success.
Read More...8 Ways You Can Make Your Presentation A Success
5. Audio visual: If you are using a PowerPoint presentation make sure the equipment is working well. Are your PowerPoint slides in the right sequence? Do you have a remote control to change them? This way you can move around and are not chained to your computer. Remember to turn the slide to black when you are not addressing what is on the screen. Is each slide visible from the back of the room or auditorium? Are the talking points presented as a “build” or “reveal?” Remember, your visuals aids are a tool, not a crutch. They are there to support you.
6. Connect with the organizer or emcee: Be clear about who will introduce you, and where you will be during their comments. Will you walk on from the wings or up from the floor? Will you shake hands with him or her, or will they exit once you hit the stage and before the applause dies down. I recommend you nod and mouth “Thank you.” If you are speaking at a banquet, check that you will have a clear path to the microphone without tripping over wires, chairs, or diners.
7. Pre-written introduction: In advance, send your pre-written introduction to the person delivering it. Carry another two with you. Have it written in an 18-point, bulleted list. This is easier to read than paragraphs. Be sure your introducer knows how to pronounce your name correctly. It is a good idea to confirm they have the introduction and are comfortable with what is written. Make sure your introducer knows the introduction is prepared in a certain way to set the tone for your presentation.
8. Be your own warm up act: Connect with as many audience members as possible before you speak. When they see you are extending yourself they will return the favor of giving their attention. That only lasts a few minutes so make sure you grab their attention with a great opening.
9. Learn from the experience: Always follow any presentation with an After Action Analysis. Start with asking yourself what you did well. Next, what could be improved? Always record your presentation and listen to what you said. There are three speeches for every one you deliver. The one you planned to give, the speech you actually delivered, and the improved next presentation based on what you did right, would like to do better, and what can be added from what you learned from the experience.
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