Ten Fatal Flaws Frequently Found
from the Podium
By Sandra Schrift
1. No clear purpose for the presentation.
What is the point and focus of the speech?
2. Not starting and stopping on time. Be flexible and be able to cut
the talk short if asked. Be in control.
3. Not dressing appropriately. Always be a step above the
audience. If it's business casual, be a little dressier than casual.
4. Not knowing the audience. Make sure you know what the audience
expects.
5. Not checking out your room. A/V equipment and seating for any
potential problems. Give yourself enough time to make the room right for
you.
6. Not having good platform skills. Knowing your subject is not
enough. You must have the ability to excite the audience and keep their
interest.
7. Not having rapport with the audience. Not doing your research to
find out what really interests them. You will know that magic moment when
the audience is nodding with approval.
8. Not knowing when to stop. Too much information can not be absorbed
by the audience.
9. Not having enough information. The talk should have substance and
knowledge of the client's business.
10. Not being sensitive to the audience. Do not use ethnic stories or
off color remarks. Politics and religion should be avoided unless you are a
member of the clergy.
POINT: The effectiveness of a talk is whether the audience enjoyed it
and found it useful. Did the talk influence their behaviour positively and
productively once they returned to their jobs?
Sandra Schrift
www. Schrift.com
e-mail coachschrift@juno.com
Phone: 619-460-7866 FAX: 619-462-0625
After 13 years as an owner of a national speakers bureau, I am now a
career telecoach to emerging and experienced speakers who want to get to the
next level in their profession. I also coach small business owners on
growing themselves and their business.
Your
personal best - it's pivotal!