Don’t look down! The secret to not forget what you need to say when you’re on stage. [Speak on the Shoulders of Giants]
When you see a speaker who can confidently stand on stage, doesn’t it make you wonder what his or her secret is in looking so comfortable?
Public speaking requires confidence, preparation, and finesse.
It’s not simply about slides and stage presence. The speaker also has to remember all the important points and ideas he or she has to discuss.
How can speakers make sure they cover everything they need to say?
POWER READING.
— This is just one of the powerful secrets featured in James C. Humes’ book, “Speak Like Churchill, Stand Like Lincoln.”
Reading your speech directly from a piece of paper or monitor is not always an effective way to communicate with your audience unless you can project and do it well.
How?
“Memorize then conversationalize.”
Memorize what you want to say. Say it in your own words. Use a conversational tone.
Even if others think that it’s better to not read from anything during a speech or presentation, we see journalists, well-respected politicians, and other influential people read from a monitor.
There’s nothing wrong about that.
Some people prefer to speak in front of an audience without their notes.
Some people are more comfortable with talking points on hand or a full-on script.
Whichever way you choose, remember: Don’t speak while looking down.
Bourke Cockrane once said, “Never, never, never let words come out of your mouth when your eyes are looking down.”
Look at your audience and make eye contact.
Looking down during a presentation disconnects you from your audience.
SEE. STOP. SAY.
- First, look down and SEE the words.
- Second, bring your head up and STOP for a second.
- Lastly, SAY the line in your own words.
Following these 3 steps when you choose to read during your presentation or speech gives emphasis on what you want to say.
You can also relate this to one of our past articles on the Power Pause.
Just like the Power Pause, the second step (STOP for a second) can generate audience anticipation.
You heighten the anticipation by making them wait for your next words.
Stopping before saying what you read will definitely capture your audience’s attention.
Reading your notes, slides, or script while you’re up on stage is okay.
You just need to practice on doing it in the most proper and confident way while still engaging with your audience.
Try Power Reading in your next speaking engagement.
With the right preparation and practice, you’ll improve your presentation skills by a ton!
About The Dynamic Marketing Communiqué’s
“Wednesdays: Speak on the Shoulders of Giants”
In a meeting with one person
…a boardroom with five people
…or a huge venue with hundreds of people
—whatever the situation or setting, it’s very important to learn and eventually master the art of public speaking.
No matter what, you always need to effectively get your message across.
What good is a presentation with awesome content if you don’t deliver it properly?
Every Wednesday, we publish different tips, insights, and secrets on how you can improve your presentation skills to captivate your audience and lead interesting discussions.
The need for great presentation skills applies EVERYWHERE.
(Small meetings with your team, big meetings with your boss, an important marketing pitch, speaking engagements for events with a big audience, etc.)
Learning these skills is not just for the corporate world. Being in other industries such as the Arts, Information Technology, Medicine, and Education while knowing how to present well will definitely give you an edge.
Have that advantage.
Hope you’ve found this week’s public speaking tip interesting and helpful.
Stay tuned for next Wednesday’s Speak on the Shoulders of Giants!
Cheers,
Kyle Yu
Head of Marketing
Valens Dynamic Marketing Capabilities
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