Listen, you can memorise your speech like a pro, have points that are backed by the latest research findings and scholarly quotes, crafted on breathtaking slides. However, if you fail to keep your content audience-centred, then your message can fall flat on the listeners. This was what I learnt when I took a public speaking course at university.
I was a reserved young lady who had lots of ideas but was too nervous and shy to express them in front of strangers. I worried about how I would sound, I was scared my mind would go blank, I worried I’d forget my points (with amazing research behind them!) and of course, nervous of what people would think of me.
But when I learnt that speaking in public is not about the speaker (self-centred thinking) but rather about connecting with the audience (being audience-centred), it took away a lot of my self-consciousness and fear of speaking.
And so it is my hope today that this way of thinking can also transform the way you view speaking.
In today’s episode, I break down five simple audience-centred questions to help you prepare content that is mindful of the listeners at all times. By focusing on answering these questions ahead of time, it can help make you a better and more confident speaker.
You can also listen to this session on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Google Podcasts.
The five questions are:
- Who will be in the audience?
- Why are they there?
- How much do they already know about the subject?
- What do I have to offer them?
- How can I make my presentation memorable?
If you are ready to become a great speaker, then do listen to today’s episode here and tell us what you think.
All the best in your next presentation!
