I’m at a live event, in-person! I spoke yesterday and today I get to sit back and take in the other speakers. What lessons can we learn from each other?
- Theatrical still works – One speaker ceremoniously discards pandemic-wear. The stage manager comes on stage with a trash bin to receive the offending sweater. Another speaker enters carrying a big old prop – a surfboard. The audience is paying attention; they are engaged. Lesson? Don't miss a chance to be a theater kid when it comes to public speaking.
- Speaker movement is an artform. Illustrate a point by bobbing and swooshing across the stage. Big arms, thrown wide to encompass everything. Purposeful movement wins. Pacing back and forth from point A to point B does nothing for me. Remember, small movements in front of your body don't tend to translate to a large audience. Go big, and to the side.
- I love a good metaphor and a talk with a theme – a speaker with slide showing the point of view of a swimmer beneath the waves and looking up. You’re getting pummeled by wave after wave. You’re riding the wave. Surfing the wave. Rising and swelling. Water, water, everywhere...
- Analogies. My 10th grade English teacher would be so pleased.
- Tell me what you are going to do and then deliver. And make it about specifics.
- Give me instructions. “Take notes on the actions today’s presentations incite for you and refer back to them when you get back to the office.” (A terrific way to keep the audience thinking about your presentation after the event is over.)
- Simple graphics that make a point. Clean and clear slides and images that don’t overwhelm but help communicate the message. Define terms in the slides so you don’t have to. Everyone's on the same page and you haven't wasted any time.
What kind of lessons have you learned (or had reinforced) recently?
Bobbie Carlton is the founder of Innovation Women, an online speaker bureau for women.
I mine value out of data and help others do the same.
2yGood stuff, Bobbie. But I didn’t see you at my last talk, taking these notes… you should have said “hi”. 😎😁😎
🚀 ICF Professional Certified Coach | 📚 3x Author | 🎙Host of Make Some Noise Podcast with 4 million downloads | Confidence Keynote Speaker
2yLove this, Bobbie! I forget sometimes that big arms are always necessary, even if it feels like too much. Just like make-up...I wouldn't wear my stage make up every day :) Just signed up for your newsletter too!
(Currently on Maternity Leave) Senior Program Manager, Global Events at Forrester Research
2yLove this! Thanks for coming down and participating in our event.
Voice Over Talent with Source Connect | Audiobook Narrator | Performer | Teaching Artist | SAG-AFTRA Member
2yThis is fabulous. And yes!