presenting on video
You’ve heard it before. Of all the 100s of business cliches, one of the most popular is –
‘People buy from people’
This is often stated … but is it true? Well, not always. I don’t tend to feel the ‘people’ connection when I pay my electricity bill – nor when I order a book from Amazon. So, let’s change the saying to –
‘People like to buy from people’
That’s more like it. When choosing from smaller product or service providers, we’re much more likely to go for a business or an individual that we can warm to, who has an appealing ‘personality’. What better way to convey this warmth than by the way in which we present ourselves in public? If we can come across as relaxed, friendly, calm, confident, authoritative, and (this one really matters) interested in our audience and their problems, then we’ll have a great chance of impressing them and maybe, one day, doing business with them.
Public speaking in business comes in numerous formats –
- Pitching Ideas or Products
You might find yourself pitching your ideas, products, or services – maybe to potential investors, partners, or customers. This involves delivering a clear, concise, and compelling speech to persuade others to believe in your product or service.
- Presentations and Meetings
Do you ever find yourself needing to give presentations during meetings with clients, employees, or other stakeholders? Here, public speaking skills are essential to clearly communicate the information and ideas you want to convey.
- Networking Events
These occasions are all about making meaningful connections. They demand excellent public speaking skills. As a proficient public speaker, you’ll be able to leave a lasting impression, making your business more memorable to potential partners, clients, or investors.
You might only have a minute or two to make an impression. You’ll need to:
- introduce yourself
- succinctly communicate your business’s value proposition
- create a compelling narrative.
Networking events give you an opportunity not only to pitch your business but to express your brand, establishing a memorable identity in the minds of your listeners.
- Leadership
Effective public speaking skills will be a massive help to you in motivating or inspiring your team. You need to be able to communicate your vision, goals, and strategies effectively – aligning them to your team’s efforts and boosting morale.
- Public Relations
Maybe you have to speak at press conferences or media interviews. You’ll need to present your company positively and handle any potential crisis or negative publicity effectively.
- Conferences
These are opportunities for you to establish yourself as a thought leader in your industry. You might be invited to deliver a keynote speech, give a talk, or be part of a discussion panel. Having strong public speaking skills will help you to share your knowledge and insights convincingly.
You’ll have the opportunity to position yourself as an authority in your industry and enhance your reputation. With careful crafting and skilful delivery, your contribution will persuade, inspire and enlighten. You’re not only selling your product or service, but you’re selling your expertise, your unique insights, and your distinct way of seeing the world.
- Training and Workshops
To deliver effective training sessions or workshops, either internally for their team or externally, you’ll need to be able to present information clearly and engagingly.
- Investor Meetings
Are you looking for funding? Then you’ll need to present your business plans and visions to potential investors. Effective public speaking can make all the difference in securing your investment. You might have to negotiate, persuade, and prove your business’s worth. It is high-stakes communication, and the success of your business can pivot on your performance.
- Webinars and Virtual Events
With the growing importance of digital communication, you might be thinking of hosting or participating in webinars and virtual events. Strong public speaking skills will be a massive support in maintaining audience engagement, even in a virtual setting.
- Product Launches
If your product launch is to be as successful as you want it to be, you’ll need to know how to convey your excitement and passion for your new product or service to your audience – potential customers, partners, and media.
In each of these scenarios, your public speaking skills will make all the difference. They’ll help to
- build your brand
- influence others
- ultimately drive your business forward
Public speaking – build your brand, reputation & sales skills
What’s the common thread running through all these types of public speaking? They help build your brand, bolster your reputation, and enhance your sales skills. Public speaking in any form is a way to communicate directly with your audience, convey your passion, and create personal connections. The more you engage in public speaking, the more your confidence grows. As your confidence grows, so too does your comfort in selling your business, products or services.
Practice makes perfect
Getting over the fear of public speaking might seem like an insurmountable task, but it doesn’t have to be. It starts with learning. Watch TED talks, observe how the speakers construct their speeches, manage their nerves, and engage their audience. Then practise – start in front of a mirror, progress to family and friends, and welcome their honest feedback. It’s only through practice that you can truly improve.
Presenting in Public – making all the difference
Public speaking can truly open up a world of possibilities for your business. It’s a powerful tool that not only markets your products or services but also builds your personal brand, your confidence and your credibility. So, don’t wait. Take a deep breath, step up to the microphone, and let your voice be heard. It could make all the difference for your business.
And, of course, here at Breakthrough Public Speaking, I’m here to help. Let’s start by scheduling a no-obligation chat. Tell me about your goals and your public speaking challenges. I’d love to hear from you.
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