Become a Master Public Speaker In 2011
In Just Minutes a Day
100 days. Imagine what's possible between the day you read this and a few short days from now. The blue-sky days and summer heat can put your professional skills development on hold.
But, this year, put a new plan in motion. Become an effective public speaker. Instead of frying in the sun and getting fat at a local bar-b-que, make the most of this valuable time.
In just minutes a day, you'll become a better man (or woman) before fall sets in.
There's a lot you can accomplish in a targeted 100-day power plan.
Conquer The Fear
Expert coaches will tell you: to be an charismatic presenter, speak without fear. Let's break it down. What's the worst thing that can happen to you?
Sure, you might blow a deal. You could alienate a client. But when you take a no-fear approach to presenting, you're more likely to do the opposite.
Customers and prospects respond to passionate performance. Take the risks and you'll find people are more receptive to your ideas, proposals and suggestions. In short, take the risks – you'll win the rewards.
Get Your Story Straight
In business, it's never the data that sells people. It's the story. Get your story straight. And keep it no-brainer simple. This is the core for effective public speaking.
Looking for a quick, no-cost way to 'test' your story? Try it out on a 5-year old. If the kid gets it, so will your super-busy clients.
Seriously, guys – this works. If you don't have kids, ask a neighbor or colleague if you can tell your leadership or sales story to their kids. When the kids smile, nod and repeat your story – you have a winner.
Show and Tell
Think of this as a one-two punch. Show your story in pictures. Work on a whiteboard. Use a flipchart sketch. If you have to, draw on the back of a napkin. Or use a stick to draw a sketch in the sand.
Show your story. Commit to 'showing' pictures no matter where you are. The office. The beach. The bar-b-que. Showing, of course, is different from telling.
Show your story in pictures, and tell with simple, easy-to understand words. This is a rock-solid formula for success.
Inspire Action
What do you always want people to do? Make a decision! Buy what you're selling. Whether you are selling ideas, presenting a strategy or making a proposal – action is the most critical part.
Think about action – before you open your mouth. What do you want people to do? Focus on targeted action and you'll know the secret to effective public speaking skills will take off like a rocket.
Red-Hot Tips
It's summer time, right? Don't spend all your time cooped up in your office. Get out and enjoy the blue-sky days, warm waves, and yes, cold beers.
Just keep your goal in mind: you have 100 days to become an powerful presenter. So practice telling your story wherever you go!
Bar-b-ques. Block parties. Boat outings. Beach festivities.
No matter where you are, practice.
Of course, look for more formal opportunities to practice your skills. Impromptu speeches. Church and temple gatherings. In-service presentations for summer interns. Talks at your local community club. Presentations for special interest groups. Association meetings. Fundraisers.
Make a list of all the places you can practice your skills.
Reduce the stress of public speaking – one speech at a time. With a consistent focus on building your skills, there's a lot you can accomplish in a summer.
What are you waiting for? Let's get going!