Speaking in front of an audience comes easily to some people. But for others, it can be an intimidating, unnerving experience that causes high levels of anxiety. Believe me, I understand. But once you learn three key factors that can turn anxiety into excitement, speaking can become something you look forward to instead of run away from.
First and foremost, speak on what you know. If you always speak on topics that you know and are passionate about, you will feel much more comfortable standing in front of a live audience. Remember that your audience has gathered together based on the information you’ve shared about your topic. They want to know more from the moment they walk in. Be well prepared and speak from your heart, and your audience will not only feel the message you are sharing, but they will understand why you are an expert in your field connecting on a completely different level.
Secondly, target the right audience. Whatever your expertise, find the audience that will benefit most from your message. Seek out the groups or organizations that match your passions and will engage with your message. Speaking to people who have the same interests and passions that you do will always increase your comfort level. You will have a captive audience that wants to hear what you have to say and see how they can implement it in their own lives, and that’s a winning situation!
And finally, choose the right vehicle. What does this mean? By vehicle, I simply mean to find the way to get your message out there that best fits your industry and your own personal speaking style. There are many effective ways to broadcast your message. It could be through live, in-person engagements, or online events. It might even include teleseminars or pre-recorded webinars. Some industries command in-person engagements, where others work very well with online speaking and videos.
Sharing your message definitely becomes easier the more you do it. Experience alone will promote confidence to some degree, but if you incorporate the three key factors above, you can set yourself up for greater success from the very beginning of your speaking career.
My challenge to you this week is three-fold: First, create your unique message. Put your expertise and your passions on paper and develop the framework for the message you want to share. Based on your message, make a list of the right groups and organizations that can benefit from hearing you speak. And then give some thought to which vehicle best fits your industry and style. These three exercises will put you on the right path to developing your speaking career.
