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Don’t start like this (on stage or Zoom)
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Hi Reader You’ve seen this, right? A speaker gets up — in a meeting room or on Zoom — and just starts. (I saw someone doing this and couldn't resist highlighting the problem and some simple ways to fix it. So you know where the inspiration for this newsletter came from!) No “hello,” no warm-up — just: “Alright, when you’re giving feedback, the first thing you need to do is…” Meanwhile, the audience is still shifting in their seats, wrapping up an email, or trying to figure out if this is going to be worth listening to. This happens a lot with how-to talks or walkthroughs. The speaker dives straight into the what and how… …but forgets that the audience hasn’t caught up yet. Whether you’re in person or online, people need a moment to:
What can we do about it? Here are super ways to avoid the “jump in” trap and it works everywhere:
Even if you know your topic very well, your audience is coming in at room temperature. You need to warm them up. Isn't it? So, before jumping into the 10 steps you have, allow them to settle in. This may look so simple but trust me, it makes a ton of difference. It helps them tune in — and helps you land your message. Thanks for being awesome! ~Rama |
PublicSpeakKing
Learn something every week about public speaking, book writing or personal development. Join 1500+ creatives and professionals who receive my action packed yet entertaining newsletter.
Hi Reader Ever heard of the law that quietly shapes the lives of the most respected, fulfilled, and wealthy people? It’s not hustle.It’s not networking.It’s not even raw talent. It’s value. (That's the subject line if you missed it. No open loops today!). There’s a gem from The Go-Giver (a book that I highly recommend. It's wonderfully written as a modern day parable) that reassured how I think about work and life: "Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value than you...
Hi Reader You’ve seen this, right? A speaker gets up — in a meeting room or on Zoom — and just starts. (I saw someone doing this and couldn't resist highlighting the problem and some simple ways to fix it. So you know where the inspiration for this newsletter came from!) No “hello,” no warm-up — just: “Alright, when you’re giving feedback, the first thing you need to do is…” Meanwhile, the audience is still shifting in their seats, wrapping up an email, or trying to figure out if this is...
Hi Reader There’s one technique that instantly makes any speaker sound more confident. It’s not voice. Not body language. Not vocabulary.It’s… the pause! Most people rush. Out of nerves. Out of habit. Out of fear. But the best speakers?They pause intentionally—right before an idea lands. Here’s a simple trick I teach: Before you say your key message... pause for 2 seconds. Not only does it give you time to breathe, but it makes your words feel intentional. Even powerful if that makes sense....