Why is it that you remember one presenter and forget another? When someone mentions the first speaker’s name, your comment may be, “Oh! She’s a wonderful speaker! I heard her several years ago and will never forget her.” However, when the second speaker is mentioned, you might say, “That name sounds familiar, but I can’t really remember her or what she spoke about.”
All presenters want to be remembered—and to be remembered for being outstanding. Here’s what great speakers have in common:
- They have their own unique style. These speakers are comfortable with themselves and never try to be someone they aren’t. Because of this, they make us comfortable.
- They open and close with impact. Their openings immediately grab your attention, and their closings make you want to take action the minute you leave the room. The openings and closes are often memorized and are like pieces of bread that hold your sandwich together.
- They tell powerful stories. Memorable speakers share stories that stay with you for days, weeks or even months after the presentation. They’ve studied this art form and have well- rehearsed stories that they’ve told hundreds of times to friends, family members and other audiences.
- They have a superb sense of time—and timing. Great speakers are on time. They don’t use up more time than they have been allotted, and they also know how to pace and to pause at just the right moments during their presentations.
- They’re in control. They control what is going on during the presentation. If there’s a heckler or someone who is asking so many questions the presentation could get off track, they know how to handle the situation in a kind, yet firm, way.
- They handle the Q&A session perfectly. These speakers answer questions with knowledge, honesty and clarity. They are not afraid to admit when they don’t know the answer to a question. And if they promise to find the answer and get back to you—they will!
- They bond with the audience. Great speakers look you in the eye, involve you and establish rapport with you and everyone else in the audience.
You, too, can be memorable! Join us at our next program so we can help!