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One of the quickest ways to increase visibility, gain credibility and grow your business is to master the art of speaking in public. Whether this involves sharing your knowledge in-person to groups or through the increasingly popular use of videos, being seen and heard is a great opportunity for others to get to know you.
When done well it can provide a fast boost to your business.
Especially if you are in a service based business or selling products developed around your personal brand as potential clients get the chance to connect with you in 'real' rather than 'virtual' life!
A website, brochure or social media just can't fully convey the true essence of who you are and what you do.
This doesn't mean you have to be slick and word perfect in your presentations. In fact, being perfect (if this is possible!), is more likely to make others feel uneasy. It is about being genuine and authentic, with a sense of passion and purpose for what you do.
Sadly, many of us miss out! The mere thought of standing in front of an audience or being seen on YouTube is terrifying.
If your anxiety about speaking in public is preventing you from using this approach to help promote your services then don't despair. There really are only two simple steps that will help you win hearts and minds - preparation and practice.
Firstly, prepare by crafting one to two signature talks that will be of most interest to your audience. The easiest way to do this is to find out about what would be of most value and really engage them.
Then list the main points on a piece of paper or use post it notes so that you can organise the flow of your talk.
Craft a powerful opening statement which will get people's attention and also work out a strong close. These are what will be remembered most.
Create links between each of the topics you will be covering and include interesting stories to illustrate the points you make (stories sell, facts tell). Your own experiences or topical news items grab attention when they relate to your subject.
Then practice and time your delivery so that you become increasingly comfortable with the content and flow of your presentation. Ideally use a small voice recorder so that you can record and review your talk.
Get lots of practice by setting yourself a target of speaking a certain number of times per year. Your confidence and ease will develop the more talks you give.
Before launching yourself fully to the public, if you are new to speaking or out of practice, consider joining a supportive group like toastmasters, which operates throughout the world to help budding speakers develop their skills. Or arrange to speak to small groups who you know well, such as your local networking group or maybe your social or sporting club.
If you are more experienced then contact groups, professional associations or conference organisers who might be interested in your talk. There is always a demand for new speakers so put together a short speaker profile with details of your talk and send this pack to the organisers.
Don't be afraid to ask for feedback as this is the quickest way to learn what works and what doesn't. David Copperfield, the most highly paid magician, always asks for in depth feedback after each of his performances. He knows that the only way to get better and to continue to delight his audiences is to find out what he needs to do differently.
The best way to get the most useful feedback is ask a trusted colleague to join you at the event who will tell you want went well and what you could to do to improve. General feedback forms although helpful won't necessarily reveal what people really experienced.
Finally, and most importantly, speak from the heart as others are more likely to want to engage and connect with your true self.
If you would like learn more success tips for speaking in front of groups then download this free Speaking for Success Guide: The Art of Effortless and Successful Presentations.
Click here for your copy
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