What does it take to speak like a pro? I’ve certainly heard some not so true things being said by people who obviously don’t speak for a living. Those are the folks who sell illusions that don’t really exist. If you know my work then you know I’d like to slap, excuse me I mean Snap those people Out of It! Ok I’m back. There’s a ton to write about regarding speaking for a living but for this post I’m going to share 3 tips for being a more confident and effective speaker.
1. Be prepared. For the industries sake don’t wing it! Very few people step onto the stage and just say whatever comes to their mind successfully. The pros just look like they do. I work on each talk for days sometimes weeks before I present. Speaking takes many hours of research, practice and understanding the needs of the industry of which you are speaking. Practice your talk until it becomes second nature then you can really start to play and communicate with your audience. Preparation always comes first! Only then can you deliver a message that will shift not only the minds of your audience but more importantly, their hearts!
2. Wear what makes you feel like a million bucks. When you are uncomfortable your audience is uncomfortable. Creeping wedgies don’t work well on stage! When you’re distracted by clothes that don’t fit properly you can’t be in the moment with your audience. What you feel on stage broadcasts loud and clear. Make sure you feel like a star and your audience will applaud you for it.
3. Emotionally and mentally remind yourself why you are doing what you’re doing. Are you there to pump up your ego, listen to yourself talk or deliver a life-changing message? Take a moment to connect with your heart. Remind yourself of your mission and life’s purpose before you step on to that stage. When what you say effectively changes someone’s life for the better, you can be confident there is no better feeling than that!
Now Snap Out of It! and hit the stage!
DeDe Murcer Moffett
The Snap Out of It! Woman