Harry’s 10 strategies for speakers
- Never give the audience a reason not to listen. Using phrases such as, “I’m not an expert,” or “bear with me,” gives the audience a reason to tune out, because “why should I listen to you?”
- Be conscious of body language. Actions such as shuffling feet, leaning on the lectern, or failing to make eye contact undermine your credibility with an audience. No matter how good the message, it will likely be lost without that connection.
- ‘Sameness is the death of speakers.’ If we move the same way, fail to use the stage, never change our vocal variety, eyes will likely glaze.
- Understand that the connection with the audience begins when you walk through the door. Long before you begin speaking, you will be evaluated and maybe even judged by how you interact with the crowd.
- Begin with a bang. You can use a quotation, anecdote, intriguing environment or, a dramatic pause. If you lose the audience early, it’s tough to get them back.
- Limit the use of numbers and stats. While exceptions exist within certain industries, audiences usually prefer stories and imagery. It’s how we’re mentally wired.
- Remember that the audience is on your side. It’s uncomfortable for everyone to watch a struggling speaker. Everyone benefits when you succeed.
- Avoid inappropriate stories and language. That can turn off or offend an audience with no chance of getting them back. It also potentially creates long-term negative effects for you and the organization for whom you are speaking.
- Handling Q/A. While every situation is different, too many times, an effective presentation gets lost because the speaker allowed the energy to run out of the room, because of a too long Q/A session. In most cases, take two or three questions, then…
- …close with your best and best prepared story. Leave the audience on a high, with them exiting, the impactful story dominating their collective minds.