I’ve never been a fan of New Year’s resolutions. So this year, I took a page from social media superstar Chris Brogan’s book, and picked three words to describe my hopes for 2012:
serenity — productivity — joy
Yes, it’s another example of The Rule of 3! And when it comes to public speaking success, the three words that make all the difference are:
PREPARE — PRACTICE — PRESENT
Not Perfect, But Incredibly Helpful!
I used to call these “The 3 P’s of Perfect Presentations,” and while no presentation can ever be perfect, these steps will get you as close as possible!
PREPARE: Good speeches don’t just happen. They’re created when someone cares enough to put good content, relevant to their audience’s needs, into a smooth and logical flow. It takes skill and hard work to create a powerful speech, but you can learn how.
PRACTICE: A well-crafted speech deserves great delivery, and there’s only one way to get that: With lots and lots (and lots!) of practice. If you’ve trained as a performer, you may know the best ways to practice. If not, again, you can learn.
PRESENT : Once you’ve prepared a well-thought-out speech, and practiced until it’s comfortable, present it to your audience as the gift that it is. Most of us feel awkward (or even fearful) when we speak in public; and while that’s a natural reaction, it’s much more fun to get out of your own head and just talk to your audience.
At every step of the way, you can learn to approach public speaking more effectively. (And yes, I can help!)
A Gift that Keeps on Giving
Last month I talked about unwrapping your public speaking gifts, and communicating from an awareness of your strengths.
Every time you do that — every times you speak with authenticity, power, and ease — you’re giving your listeners a gift that’s all too rare in our sound-bite world: The gift of your best thinking.
If you need help, please give me a call! And have a serene, productive, and joyful 2012.
