4 tips for speaking success
Marketers often speak publicly, and media relations pros know the importance of making a good impression on an audience. To make a bigger effect, consider this author and speaker’s advice.
“Why the hell am I so nervous?” I wondered.
In moments I would get up to speak to an audience of three thousand in Mexico City at an entrepreneurship conference. Despite the many people, I wasn’t sure why I was so nervous. Usually, the larger the crowd, the more excited, not nervous, I got.
Right before I took the stage, my friend, entrepreneur, speaker and author Mike Michalowicz, who was up after me, approached. I thought he could sense my nerves.
“Big crowd, eh?’ Mike said. I nodded, and then Mike shared with me an important lesson that has stuck with me ever since.
“Remember,” he said. “It’s all about them, not you. Inspiring your audience is all about helping them see their own vision, not yours.”
It’s critical advice for anyone trying to inspire others whether it’s from the stage at a large conference; in a meeting with a boss, team, or department; on a client pitch or sales call; or at home with one’s spouse and kids.
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