Hi Reader Pop Quiz: Have you ever wondered if public speaking is about (a) putting on a performance or b) being conversational? If you tried to answer the question with one option, then DON'T. It's not an either/or. It's both. We had this conversation during a coaching call yesterday, and I felt this is an important point to share with the larger audience. Let me explain. I believe we understand that there are going to be scenes in your speech. Then, there is narration where you narrate to your audience as the speaker. The Scene vs The Chat. There are moments in your speech where you need to sit back and connect — like you’re having coffee with your audience. That’s conversation. And then… There are moments where you need to step into the scene. You become the character, raise the stakes, and slow down the moment. Both are part of the same skillset (public speaking skillset). After all, we are all in the business of building skills. The Secret? Balance.Being a great speaker isn’t just about being relatable. Conversation builds trust. So next time someone tells you “Just be conversational,” smile and nod… then add a little stagecraft when the moment calls for it. Because you’re not just learning to speak. As always, thanks for being awesome! Rama
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Hi Reader Happy Friday, and a quick insight for you! One of my coaching clients recently asked me something. He had a meeting coming up with his CEO.And he told me, “That thought stays in my mind for days before the meeting.” I said, “That’s okay. It shows that you care.” Then I added:“As long as it doesn’t stop you from doing what you want to do… it’s okay.” He found that simple idea surprisingly helpful.Maybe you will, too. Because that’s how it is with public speaking too. Do you feel...
Hi Reader Yesterday, I sat in on a practice session—and let me tell you, it wasn’t just another rehearsal. It was a reminder. You see, the voice was firm. Gestures? On point. Structure? Tight. But what really struck me was:Let’s not compromise empathy and sincerity for perfection. That line hit me and I had to share that feedback as a next step. And trust me, we all will hit this phase. Because here’s the trap we all fall into:We chase the perfect pause, the power pose, the flawless finish…...
Hi Reader When we create something, we want it to be really good. Don't we? Yup, it could be anything. A speech, a book, an article, a painting or any creative work for the sake or argument. Let's keep the scope to speeches. There'll come a point, where you go beyond basics and you'll learn advanced techniques for improving—persuasion, vocal variety, body language, storytelling. And you should too. That's when you'll keep learning and growing. But there is a key thing to note. And most...