The Whole Person July 21, 2009

Presentation Skills – Secrets of the Pros

Secret #1 The Whole Person

One of the greatest moments in anybody’s developing experience is when he no longer tries to hide from himself but determines to get acquainted with himself as he really is. … Norman Vincent Peale

Effective presentation skills start with self-appreciation. Model communicators will tell you to bring the whole person to the stage every time get up to speak. Recognize how well-rounded and accomplished you are in all aspects in your life and you’ll become a more confident speaker who gets results.

Self Appreciation and the presenter

As presenters, we can feel supremely confident about our communications and abilities. Self-appreciation, however, can fluctuate, even take a nose-dive if we’ve gone through a drastic change in our personal or professional life. As a result, presenters might only bring fragments of themselves to the stage and your audience will sense your weakness reflected in your presentation skills, body language, and tone of voice.

But ask yourself, “What is reminding me that I’m not good enough? Do I feel a lack physically, intellectually, materially – my education or background? What’s holding me back from making a highly effective presentation? Should it really count that much against everything I have accomplished and adversely affect the way I communicate my message today?” Reflect on those accomplishments you’ve made throughout your life, and take a deep breath. Your audience has come to hear you speak. They value the insights that you’ve gained from a lifetime of experience.

Notice that I’m using the term “self-appreciation.” TV host Mr. Rogers helped millions of children feel special. But the era of egotism and being number one brought about problems when high self-esteem was based on external issues. In the Journal of Social Issues, Dr. Jennifer Crocker finds “that people who pin their self-esteem on academic performance, good looks, the approval of bosses, friends or family members or other societal-sanctioned yardsticks are at higher risk for a variety of problems, including academic difficulties, relationship conflicts, aggression and increased use of drugs or alcohol.”

In contrast, people who judge themselves by more internal measures like virtue, self-responsibility, self-sufficiency, religious faith and the knowledge of one’s own competence and capability to deal with obstacles and adversity, regardless of what other people think, fare better. They are less likely to show anger and aggression or seek out narcotics. Personal and social responsibility need to be attached to high self-appreciation. The audiences don’t react favorably to arrogant speakers who talk down to their listeners. They respond well to presenters who truly appreciate the worth of the audience and themselves.

A client, a noted surgeon, had saved hundred’s of lives. Now he was in a prestigious administrative position in a growing life sciences company but he felt awkward and nervous talking to other doctors. During our coaching sessions, nothing I tried seemed to improve his anxiety. Finally I sat him down and asked what path he had taken to be where he was today. His years during medical school and training were arduous and challenging. But he gradually acquired the experience and expertise. Patients came to him when cardiac surgery was their last hope and gave them many years to look forward to. He’s overcome a physical disability, along with other personal challenges. He was also a proud Dad. When he finished his long list of accomplishments, he sat silently. Then said, “Thank you for reminding me who I am.” He got up, and all the anxiety vanished. He was articulate, confident, persuasive and absolutely on-target with his message. Backed by all the expertise and experience he brought to that moment, he spoke eloquently and forcefully. For the first time, he acknowledged and appreciated himself and his abilities.

I’m reminded of the phone ads that feature an actor surrounded by a multitude of employees. He isn’t alone. You aren’t alone. Maybe you haven’t performed cardiac surgery but ask yourself in what other areas of my life have I found success? Think of your volunteer activities, being a problem-solving parent, a good son, daughter or spouse, excelling in sports — perhaps just being a fit walker. Prize all your life experiences. The audience will respond to your multi-faceted persona. The extent to which you appreciate and value yourself will add to your confidence ability to be a compelling, powerful speaker.

Jan D’Arcy

Jan D’Arcy is the Author of
Technically Speaking: A Guide for Communicating Complex Information.
Available from our website.

For free podcasts and articles, and other presentation products, visit www.jdarcy.com

Copyright © 2009 All rights reserved.
No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.

Welcome to Jan D’Arcy’s Pocket Presentation Coach Blog July 21, 2009

Would you like to enhance your communication skills and become a more effective presenter? Do you have an important presentation coming up? This blog is for you.

I’ll be posting articles on communication skills, how to minimize and manage fears, analyze your audience, clarify your message, and project competence and credibility. I’ll also reveal secrets from performers about how you can use humor and connect emotionally with your audience.

Watch for articles, books, videos and current internet resources, so make sure to come back often.

I will give you proven tips and techniques so your next presentation is one you remember with pride.

Jan D’Arcy

Jan D’Arcy is the Author of
Technically Speaking: A Guide for Communicating Complex Information.
Available from our website.

For free podcasts and articles, and other presentation products, visit www.jdarcy.com

Copyright © 2009 All rights reserved.
No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission.