“Well, that was an hour of my life I’ll never get back!” said one of the hundreds of attendees at a recent national-level conference.
The speaker had just left the podium after reading from his prepared script, in the same, “I really don’t want to be here,” cadence for over half an hour. When presented with questions from the audience, he rattled off talking points that everyone had heard before, making little connection with the audience.
At least he didn’t use Power Point.
He was not the only speaker at this event who gave the impression he just wanted to get off the stage. People who should know better made little connection with their audience, lacked enthusiasm and displayed no apparent objective in their presentations. They were just filling space and time.
Why do highly regarded corporate, government and business leaders throw away these rare opportunities to connect with important audiences?
Unfortunately, this happens all too often at all types of events.
Public speaking talent, like other skills, can be improved with coaching and experience; but even poor public speakers can get a point across if they have a goal in mind before they get on stage.
Before accepting another speaking invitation, ask these four questions:
Who is this audience?
What can they do for me and my organization?
What do they already know about me and my organization?
What do I want them to take away from my presentation?
If you can’t answer these questions, or realize that you have little to offer, politely decline to speak. It may be better to attend the event as a non-speaker in order to engage key people one-on-one. It may be better to send another representative who has a better connection to the audience.
Whatever you chose, do it with a purpose. Your audience will thank you .
