Increase your podium power
- Laverne
- Sep 16, 2015
- 1 min read
When you step in front of an audience by yourself or with a team, you have two basic choices. One option is to retreat and allow nervousness to overtake you. The second option is to seize control and show them what you’ve got. If you prefer option two, read on!
1. Craft a killer introduction that gives your audience a reason to listen. Include key themes, benefits and a short summary of your presentation. Grab their attention quickly and don’t let go.
2. Use personal eye contact to connect. Stick with each face for at least 4 seconds to make them feel like they’re the only one in the room. If you are part of a team, get to everyone on the panel.
3. Make information meaningful. Instead of saying we’ve done 50 projects like yours, tell them that 1 out of every 4 hospitals in the state were designed by your firm.
4. Tell more stories…short and to the point. Make sure each story has a happy ending.
5. Use words that are magic to every listener: “you”, “your project”, “with you”, “for you.” (Using their name is magic too!)
6. Rehearse relentlessly…you knew this was coming! You can’t reach out until you own the content. Record yourself with your cell phone or tablet and you’ll improve 20% faster.
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