All the World's a Stage

Welcome to the twenty-ninth edition of "In Touch". As always, I would love to continue the conversation so please hit "reply" and let me know what you think.

Story of the Week: All the World's a Stage

Last week I hosted a presentation skills workshop for the Invest Cyprus team and, at one point, I was asked a question by the person responsible for encouraging major foreign film studios to shoot movies in Cyprus. He wanted to know whether I thought that was advisable for a speaker to refrain from looking at his notes whilst making a presentation. 

Instead of giving a direct answer, I replied with a question of my own, which had a direct link to his specialist area – the film industry.

“Would you be drawn into a movie if, every now and then, you saw the actors glancing at their script while performing?” Without a moment’s hesitation, he answered, “Of course not!” To which I replied, “My thoughts exactly!” 

Speakers and facilitators may not be actors in the usual sense of the word. On the other hand, they are usually to be found standing on a stage and, like actors, they are doing their best to get their message across. 

Just as a convincing actor will put in hours of preparation to learn a script and then perfect the way a character’s words are spoken, so too do the best public speakers rehearse and hone their presentations to the point that their words not only come naturally but they come from the heart. 

When you find yourself on a stage you need to be able to address them with confidence and conviction. Unlike a movie set, where everything can stop and it’s time for “Take 2”, you can’t just freeze and start again in front of your audience. But remember this: Only you know what your next point should be and no-one out there knows what you have forgotten, so if it happens, carry on. 

You will certainly make your message more impactful if you can deliver it without having to glance at your notes. That is the surest, safest way to connect with your audience and win over their hearts and minds. 

Words of Wisdom

On daring to speak from the heart:

"When you speak from the heart and say the words your soul only dared to whisper, that's when miracles happen."

Anonymous

On the purpose of speaking and listening:

"Speak in such a way that others love to listen to you. Listen in such a way that others love to speak to you."

Anonymous

A Question to Ponder, dear friend.

“What is the one characteristic you enjoy in a speaker?”

Hit reply and let me know.

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