The
Power of Presence
by Mary Jane
Mapes
Yesterday, while doing a one-on-one presentation coaching session with a client, I was
reminded of the power presence has in connecting the speaker to the audience, and
eliminating other delivery problems we often witness.
My client began his presentation in a BIG VOICE that radiated "fake"
enthusiasm. He spoke as if he was presenting to an audience of thousands, unable to
actually see anybody. He paced the stage, spoke much too quickly for me to comprehend what
he was saying (or care, for that matter), and slurred his words together. After about two
minutes of this, I stopped him, and offered this one suggestion: "David, let's begin
again with a different approach. When you come on stage, take the time to actually look
into the eyes of members of your audience. Before you begin to speak, give your total eye
attention to one person. Do not take your eyes from that person until you have reached the
end of the sentence. Then move to another person, and speak in the same way to them.
Complete a sentence before moving to the next person. Deliver your entire presentation in
this manner. Don't just look through each person; truly see each person as you speak to
them, as though they were the only person in the room. Make it a conversation with one
person at a time. No need to be bigger than life. Your sincerity will carry to the back of
the audience. The power will come in your presence, not performance. Now try it."
He did try it, and, boy, what a difference it made. The results he received from this
one suggestion will be yours, too, if you focus on being present with your audience. So
how will you benefit?
- You will come across as yourself.
- Your speech will take on more variety in pace, pitch and tone.
- Your manner will be more intimate.
- You will articulate your words more clearly.
- You will give people time to hear what you are saying, and they will be able to focus on
your message, instead of on you.
- You will allow the audience to experience and visualize each example, illustration,
analogy, and poignant quote.
- You will add depth and value to your presentation.
- You will build the bridge that makes it possible for your audience to join you and
become part of your presentation.
This is the best advice I can give to those of you who wish to increase your delivery
effectiveness with your audience. Speaking one-on-one with your audience probably won't
feel natural...and it shouldn't. It is something that must be learned and practiced. But
guaranteed: Nothing will pay bigger dividends than making a real connection with the
people sitting in front of you.
©Copyright 1999-2006 Mary Jane Mapes All rights reserved.
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