Leaders who are confident communicators can capture the attention of any audience—from those attending a safety meeting to those attending a keynote session. But being a compelling speaker is an ongoing process that requires constant improvement.
Inc. shares the following essential strategies that can help leaders develop their speaking and presentation skills and become better communicators.
- Prepare with precision. Lack of preparation is the leading cause of failed presentations. Practice articulating your content, refine the flow and anticipate questions. Rehearse extensively so you can avoid errors that break your composure.
- Arrive early, connect early. When you arrive early, you make a good impression while also having an opportunity to connect with your audience before the presentation. Engage in conversations with your audience about their experiences and families. Early interaction can set a positive tone and potentially make the audience more receptive to your message.
- Craft concise narratives. By highlighting essentials and avoiding unnecessary details, you show you respect your audience’s time by offering a concise, comprehensive presentation. An efficient presentation can lead to a more engaging discussion period, which can be an opportunity to provide more details.
- Be dynamic. Infuse energy into your presentation by using varied tones, gestures and pacing; this can help keep you engaged and foster a connection with your audience. Do not be afraid to show your personality. Also, using visual aids, anecdotes or interactive elements can make your presentation more memorable.
- Conclude with a call to action. Summarize key takeaways to reinforce your central message. Invite questions, encourage participation and end on a high note with a compelling call to action. A clear conclusion is crucial, so focus on maintaining energy and quality through to the end.
