Apparently we fear public speaking more than we fear death (or appearing naked in public!)

Well, if you desire to have a strong Personal Brand, then this is one fear you probably need to overcome (I will write a post later about overcoming fear).

At some time in our lives or careers, we are going to have to speak in public.  The fact is, ALL of us speak publicly on a daily basis - it may only be to an audience of 1, but the rules of ‘good speaking’ never really change.

If you are seeking more public speaking opportunities, and this is an important part of your brand plan, then consider the following 7 tips to improve your next speaking engagement;

1.  Arousal

Have a joke or a story, or even some multimedia to help you out by lifting the mood and relaxing people to open your presentation..get them inspired, and interested!

2.  Who are YOU?

I am amazed how many times I attend public presentations, and not know who is presenting?  Tell the audience who you are, and a little about yourself (your brand story would go well here)…

3.  Manage Expectations

Tell the audience up front how long you expect to be, and broadly what you expect to cover.

4.  Purpose

The most important part of the presentation - why are you here and what are you speaking about?

5.  WIIFM

This never changes…the audience will want to know “what is in it for me?”  Deliver this in the form of benefits, and give vivid examples of how their lives may change after hearing you speak!

6.  3 Key Points

The mind can only consume so much..and 3 things is about the limit for most people.  So tell the audience what 3 things you will be covering, and cover them! (no more, no less). This also helps when you are preparing your presentation…3 KEY POINTS.

7.  What next?

How many times have you been to a really great presentation or speech and wondered at the end…what next?  This should relate to your purpose…tell the audience where to go next so they can find out more or get in touch!

Like every skill, it takes discipline until it becomes habit..but with great public speaking, it is all about habit.  You will find with this routine, it will help you relax, and help you build a valuable and entertainining presentation…good luck and enjoy your next presentation!

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