When you make a presentation either live or written who is it about?
For a clue, take a look at the first word of the sentences in your outgoing emails. Did you look? What is the word? In most cases it’s the word “I”.
“I am writing this email to let you know that I expect action by…”
Most of us make presentations because of an internal agenda that highlight what we do (our products or services). It’s no wonder that we start our sentences with the word “I” or “We” or “My”.
But think about who is top-of-mind for the listener. They came to listen to you speak because of their needs – something that will benefit them.
At the end of your presentation (or speech, or report) do you think, “Done….one more thing off my list” or do you think, “Did they get the message?”
Is your outcome internally focused our outwardly? Do you think: I’ve done that. Or do you think: They’ll take action.
Do you know what your listeners want? Why are they spending their time at your presentation?
Watch this short ‘poem’ by Elspert Murray (it’s only 2 minutes) It is a poem not an instructional video -so it’s more commentary than instruction.
This is the overriding rule of public speaking….and it’s often ignored.
It doesn’t matter what I say, it only matters what they hear.
Now do me a favor, please post your comments below.
Here is the questions that you might help me answer:
How do we take her advice? (practically?) How do we make it more about the listener and less about our features and benefits?
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