Public speaking isn’t just about physical jitters; it’s a mental hurdle. Every speaker faces the same question: “Why should they listen to me?”
We imagine disinterested faces: darting eyes, stifled yawns. In that moment, self-doubt creeps in, drowning out your message. But here’s the truth: audiences don’t abandon you for stumbles or mispronunciations. They disconnect when you lack conviction.
Practice is essential, but it’s not the only ingredient. Consider how effortlessly you speak about your passions – that perfect cake, that exhilarating goal, that newborn’s embrace. You don’t rehearse for hours with loved ones because you’re genuinely invested.
Channel that passion into your presentations!
Now, what if the topic isn’t inherently exciting, like a boardroom presentation? Research is your answer.
Communication is built on knowledge. Fear stems from uncertainty. When you delve into a topic, the fear of losing your train of thought or getting sidelined by questions diminishes. Research those unfamiliar topics, and you might discover hidden aspects you can genuinely connect with. Focus on those aspects, and you’ll be speaking about something you care about, understand deeply, and can bring value to your audience.
Researching in today’s information age can be overwhelming. Deciding what to include can be paralyzing. That’s where your audience comes in.
Who are you speaking to? Understanding their age, interests, and behaviors allows you to tailor your speech for maximum impact.
Why should they listen? Credibility is key. But how do you build it? Stay tuned for my next blog post, “The Credibility Code for Public Speakers.”
