How do you turn your message into one that excites the audience? How do you make your audience care about your subject?
First ask yourself what it is about your message that excites you and work on transferring that thrill over to your audience.
A powerful opening is critical. Jump right in and open with a “Bang”. Pique the interest of the audience with an interesting story or startling statistic before telling them their purpose of being there and what they can expect.
Work at weaving your message into a compelling story. People do not remember mind-numbing data. They remember stories that stir their imagination. If they can remember your story, they will remember what your story illustrates. Understand the needs and interests of your audience and tell a story they can relate to.
Create pictures in the minds of your audience. Help them “see” in their minds what they are listening to. In this way, your message will have a deeper impact and you can be sure it will stick in their memory.
Use audio-visual aids to add vitality to your ideas. However remember that audio-visual aids are meant to enhance your presentation, not overshadow your performance. An excessive display of audio-visual aids can kill your presentation. Your audience is there to listen to what you have to say. They are not there to watch a display of modern technology.
End your speech on a high note. Be succinct. You can end by using a quotation or issuing a challenge, an appeal, or a call to action.
The audience needs you to make your presentation come alive. Talk to them directly. Establish eye-contact with them. Be spirited. Be enthusiastic. Connect with them both intellectually and emotionally.
Let them feel your energy.
Source: Edited from the english@work e-newsletter by 938LIVE. Subscribe to the english@work newsletter.
