What makes a good speaker? Even better, what is the difference between an inspiring speaker and merely a reader? Most of us know the difference if we have been to any conference, training or company sales rally. I wonder, though, if we know how we convey our own messages to others.
Professionals attain a level of expertise through time, but whether they are able to convey their expert knowledge to an audience is another matter.
Recently, I attended a three-day conference, and it took a full day and a half before I was captured by someone who did not merely READ their slides to the audience. I figure if I wanted someone to read to me, I could take the slides and read them myself and probably understand more.
It would be better for the audience if the Reader-Speakers either get help with their presentation skills or stick with writing what they know. When they read their slides and have nothing more to offer but what is written on the slides, it makes one wonder if they really are an expert about their topic.
So if you have occasion to speak in public forums, ask yourself these questions about your skills and then you may be closer to giving a better presentation which will gain the attention and admiration of your audience versus boring them to death.
- Who is your audience?
Each time you give a presentation, your material should be targeted to a specific audience. Like a résumé, you may change only a few items each time you send it, but that can make a big difference. When I work with a new client, my first question is always who is the audience or reader.
Craft your message to that audience and your delivery will be greatly improved.
- Are you passionate about your subject or just passing time?
A powerful delivery helps convey, not only your expertise, but your attitude toward the subject. An audience knows if you are truly interested and knowledgeable in your subject and want to share what you know. If you're speaking only to gain recognition, either get a new topic or pass on the speaking engagement. Save your audience from knowing you lack the passion or knowledge about your topic.
- Are you comfortable talking to a group about what you know?
If not, how will you ever establish rapport with them? If you can connect to your audience, they will forgive all else. If your comfort zone is limited, then get help to step out of your comfort zone and impress your audience. Try joining a local speakers group like Toastmasters, where the environment will help you overcome speaking challenges.
- How do you know if your material is aligned with your allotted time if you have not practiced your talk?
There is nothing worse than to listen to a poorly prepared talk where the speaker hurries through the information and cannot fully discuss the essentials and then abruptly ends because time is up.
Practice makes perfect, so know how much time you have and adjust your material accordingly. Don't leave the audience in want.
- Do you have something to say other than what's on your slides?
If not, you will disappoint your listeners. Don't forget to sprinkle in a little humor or personal stories to illustrate a point and to connect with your audience. Relate them to your subject to add interest and thought to a particular item.
- Are you fully competent in the delivery language?
My last question refers to speakers who use a language other than their native tongue to give a presentation. This skill is a difficult one at best, but begs attention.
Sometimes if you speak in a second language, you may not be as confident in your delivery, and it may be more acceptable for you to read a prepared format. Even then however, you must develop a way to read without the audience knowing it. You should have a native speaker edit your material, and then practice and practice beforehand to ensure you can speak intelligently and meet the time allotment. In this way, you ensure that your audience recognizes your expertise and appreciates your message.
The next time you are preparing for a public talk or presentation, think about these questions first and see if you won't find a way to improve your speaking ability and dazzle your audience.
Check out other informative topics on my publishing blog at http://remarkablesolutions.typepad.com/publishing or go to my website at http://www.remarkablesolutions.com.
Bea, I could relate to the content of your entry. I struggle to stay awake for presentations that are read to me. I find that regardless of how profound the message is, if it is read rather than delivered I struggle to listen. At a recent conference I attended one of the speakers gave an extemporaneous speech that had me hanging on to his every word. I remember more about his presentations than all the prior presentations combined.
Posted by: Khadra | June 28, 2006 at 07:13 PM