Are you more comfortable talking privately with friends than leading a group presentation? Me too. But there are three skills you excel at in small conversations that can help you shine in your next big business presentation.
An intimate discussion with friends or family is usually more fun than sharing slides, laughs and information with clients, prospects, or co-workers. But you probably have what it takes to impress both small and large audiences.
Do you know how to L.I.E.? No, not “lie”. I’m talking about my new acronym for successful speaking—to an audience of one or hundreds!
As a public speaking coach, I have discovered the power of a good L.I.E. If you want to be an engaging speaker in private conversations and business presentations, you must excel in three areas:
- L – Listening and asking questions
- I – Interest in the audience (of one or hundreds)
- E – Eye contact
Are you a good L.I.E. speaker? Think about your last conversation with a friend or family member. Did you L (listen and ask questions), I (show interest in their needs or problems) and E (look them in the eye)? You probably did. And those L.I.E. skills are the same ones you need to be an engaging and interesting business presenter!
Let me explain.
To keep your business audience interested, make them part of your conversation. When you ask your audience questions and listen to their answers, you are engaging in the type of back-and-forth discussion that will hold their attention.
As a presenter, you have to make sure your discussion touches on topics of interest to your audience. Are you talking about their current issues, problems, concerns or needs? If you are, they are probably listening closely to what you’re saying. When you are interested in your audience, they’ll be more interested in your message.
And, don’t forget to watch for audience reactions. Look at your audience to see their facial expressions, nods of agreement or looks of confusion. When you make eye contact with your listeners, they feel like you are talking directly to them. And you should be!
Remember, the better you are at L.I.E., the more engaging your presentation will be. So, use some L.I.E. in your next presentation, and see how your audience responds.
For more tips on how to connect with live or virtual audiences, check out my new e-book for business presenters. Grab your free copy today: https://mailchi.mp/betterspeakingskills/uu56ajtdmt
