SUCCESSFULLY SPEAKING YOUR
MIND
You have 20 minutes in which
to inform, educate, entertain and motivate. How do you make
the most of your time?
That's the opportunity that
presents itself when you are selected to be an educational speaker
at a networking group that looks to its speaker for insights
and concepts with which to expand their business, whether it
is through self-motivation, or insightful business concepts.
What is my objective?
What do I want the audience
to know and understand by the end of the talk? This objective
should be measurable. If my talk is on advertising, I want them
to understand the three most effective ways to advertise their
business. My objective may be to assist them in understanding
six innovative ways to track their finances or it may be to
teach a short meditation technique that can be used to replenish
and restore in the midst of a full day. Choose a few major points
you want to make. What do I want them to know? What do I want
them to do?
Prepare
With your objective in mind,
write an outline of the points you choose to make and practice.
In a short talk of 20 minutes you can make 3 or 4 points and
tell an entertaining anecdote or two. Then practice. Talk out
loud. Stand up and walk around. Let your gestures come out of
your enthusiasm and passion. Print the few notes you need in
a large font so you can see them easily at a short glance or
do without them. Test your notes so you they prompt you with
the phrases and quotes you need when you need them. A basic
guideline is to tell them what you are going to tell them, tell
them, and then tell them what you told them.
How People Learn
In order to address people's
learning habits you should address both auditory and visual
learning by providing charts, or objects that illustrate your
point. Speak with clarity and make certain your point is both
made and heard.
Entertain
Infuse your presentation with
passion, empathy and innovation. Make a point with a humorous
or poignant story. People identify with stories of your own
awareness or experience. Look at people's eyes and speak directly
people at different points in the room with warmth and caring.
Have a conversation with them. Laugh with them and have a good
time.
How Passionate Am I About My
Message?
Enthusiasm is contagious. Share
your passion. Share your excitement. Teach what you have learned,
instruct with ideas and suggestions, motivate with proven results
and success stories.
What Gift am I giving?
Your presence is a gift. The
information you give is a gift. The laughter and fun you provide
is a gift.
Have a great time.
© Cara Lumen 2004
