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Polished Speakers Invariably Reach Their Pinnacle

Recently I attended an awards event in another city, along with some 500 community, business and political leaders. A large screen projected "Thanks to Our Platinum Sponsor, Verizon", as Muzak played in the background. As the festivities began, the host, a prominent local business leader, positioned himself at the lectern, audibly cleared his throat and said, "I'd like to welcome all of you here tonight and I'd like thank our generous corporate sponsor, 'VER-i-zon'. Without the generosity of companies like 'VER-i-zon', events like this would not be possible. Please give a round of applause to our friends at 'VER-i-zon'." The pall in the room at that moment was palpable. Several attendees gasped. Representatives at the Verizon table shook their heads, but smiled graciously and stood for their acknowledgement. There, on the huge screen, was Mr. Speaker, smiling broadly and completely unaware of his monumental pronunciation gaffe. A client of mine in New York, a professional speaker, came to see me last week for some guidance with her business. "I give a powerful and motivating talk," she said, "but, for some reason, my audiences seem turned off." I attended her next speaking engagement and immediately discovered her problem: her attire. A petite, buxom brunette, she had been advised by members of a speaking organization to wear the brightest colors possible, maximize her height, and stand out from the crowd however she could. She took this to mean wearing an iridescent purple mini-skirted suit with a red low-cut blouse, loads of jewelry, and heels so high that they actually made her teeter when she walked across the stage. Instead of dressing like a pro, she wore a costume - one that damaged her credibility and distracted audiences from her otherwise profound and inspiring messages. Outfitting her in an appropriate and flattering speaking wardrobe resulted in her generating a 29% increase in back-of-the-room sales of her books and CDs. Mastering the art of public speaking is one of the most sure-fire means for reaching your pinnacle. Few strategies are as effective at establishing yourself as an authority, positioning yourself as a leader, generating sales and referrals, and stimulating inquiry from the media. Done well, speaking can catapult a lackluster business into a thriving organization. Done poorly, it can damage - even ruin - careers. I recall a business education symposium I attended about six years ago. The keynote speaker, a well-known CEO from the community, apparently experienced a paralyzing case of nerves and decided to have a few drinks before his speech. Oops. To this day, I recall - all too vividly - the demise of a public image in front of 800 influential business people. Within a year, the company closed its doors and moved to another city. How dreadfully unfortunate when Mr. CEO could have simply worked with a speaking coach to prepare for what could have been a stellar night for his company. Public speaking ranks higher than dying on the list of human fears, so I certainly empathize with this gentleman. I get butterflies, too, before taking the microphone. The only difference is that I've learned - and consistently use - several tactics for ensuring smooth sailing on stage: 1. Familiarize yourself with your speaking environment. Whenever possible, conduct a site inspection a few days prior to your presentation. Get comfortable with the room, seating, lighting and sound system. If you can, rehearse your speech where you'll actually be speaking. 2. Get familiar with the unfamiliar. If you must acknowledge people, companies or organizations, make absolutely sure you pronounce names correctly. Spell names phonetically in your notes and practice saying them until they feel comfortable. 3. Avoid spoonerisms and malapropisms. During a speech, a friend of mine accidentally goofed and referred to unfinished furniture as "unfurnished finiture." Another speaker accidentally referred to Governor Schwarzenegger as "The Governator." Audiences loved these two bloopers, but use care when selecting your words, e.g. don't mistake "hearsay" for "heresy." When in doubt, consult with a speaking expert who can help you polish your speech, guide you through proper microphone techniques, and refine your presentation skills. Toastmasters and similar organizations are excellent environments in which to hone your proficiency. Very few people are born outstanding speakers. Those skills are learned and practiced until they become second nature - and how well worth the effort!

Debra Davenport, PhD, is a Master Professional Mentor and the president of DavenportFolio, a licensed firm with offices in Los Angeles and Phoenix that mentors entrepreneurs and professionals. She is the creator of the Certified Professional Mentor® designation and certification program and the author of The Ten Commitments of Highly Successful People. debra@davenportfolio.com or (866) 232-6492.

     

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