As adults, we know just how hard it is to get up on stage and address a huge crowd. So how can a bunch of kids do it so darn well?!
A few weeks ago, I was totally blown away by a bunch of young speakers at a children's reading festival. I watched in awe as one child after the other came to the mic to introduce their favourite author. These kids spoke confidently and clearly. Some told stories, personal anecdotes, engaged the crowd. They even knew to move the mic if it was too high or too low. Many adults forget to do this! Which left me wondering - HOW? How on earth did they do it?! Bedazzled by their magic, I overlooked the obvious. So I asked the question... ...and the answer was simple. Something that I already know and preach daily. Turns out these kids were coached by their teachers. In addition to their hard work, they had guidance, feedback, and lots and lots of practice.
Learning, feedback and practice are the not-so-secret ingredients to every speaker's success.
To be clear, it is NOT something you're born with. That's the reason why anyone can be a great speaker.
Even if you don't know how.
Even if you're shy and introverted.
And even if you get nervous at the very thought of presenting.
Not only can I say this on a professional level, I can vouch for this on a more personal level too.
See, I used to be one of those kids.
I was SO shy that I could barely even talk to my Aunts and Uncles, let alone look them in the eye. And I'd get painfully nervous in front of a crowd.
But despite this, I was also that kid that was up on stage. I won speech competitions, narrated plays, MC'd events.
Much to my family's bewilderment, of course. Heck, sometimes even I can't believe I did all that! (I keep this awkward photo to remind me that it's true!!) 😜
I know that my success came down to the same three things I mentioned earlier. And regardless of who you are or where you are in your journey, these three steps can elevate your talks:
1. Keep workin' at it. Learn from these pro tips. 2. Seek feedback - and act upon it. It's so valuable to hear the audience's perspective. 3. Do not underestimate the power of practice. This adds time, yes, but it's a crucial part of the process.
It's never too late to improve your skills.
If you're interested in a workshop for you or your team, please reach out.
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