Which comes first when it comes to improving your speaking: content or delivery? Unlike the engaging question of which comes first, the chicken or the egg, to me there is no question that for great speaking, CONTENT comes first. Always, always, always.
You will no doubt have read, and perhaps even been coached by, people who breezily tell you "It's not what you say, it's HOW you say it." There are untold millions who believe the discredited idea that only 7% of the meaning of a speech or presentation comes from your words. And of course there are videocam-equipped critics who can't wait to point out how badly you look, whether it's your posture, your gestures, how you look at your notes, or where you stand.
I say to all of them that an idea that catches on, inspires people to act and even changes the world is always about the WORDS. Ideas, not gestures, impact people. Language, not posture, grabs and keeps people's attention. Well-told stories, bold proclamations, emotionally charged speech--these all make a difference, while where you stand couldn't matter less.
Business speakers have so much to offer the world in terms of content. New ideas, familiar ideas used in new ways, captivating images, connections between people and ideas--all of these add value to our world when others hear them, are inspired and take action.
My approach is called 5 Steps to Transformative Speeches and Presentations
Only 5 Steps--very short and clear, to the point, all easy to see in one visual.
Transformative--that's what you, the speaker, want to give to your audience. Put the Audience first to inspire them to transform themselves.
Speeches and Presentations -- whether you're preparing for a speech (one person speaking, no visuals or stage effects) or a presentation (one or more people, some visusals such as slides) the approach is the same. Follow the 5 steps by beginning with the end in mind, and you'll craft a speech or presentation worthy of the investment your audience makes to listen to you.
I've got lots more to say about content vs delivery. Check back here, subscribe or follow me on Twitter @speakandgrowbiz
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