Is this what’s missing from your presentations? The F word. Some of us find it hard to hear and, harder still, to use when it comes to our public speaking. But a dose of the F word can make all the difference. 

I’m talking, of course, about FEELINGS.

We are, most of us, very fond of another F word – FACTS. When we present we want to inform, explain, describe and report lots and lots of facts. We prepare slides and memorise details and cross-check all of our data to ensure no-one can contradict our content. Naturally, broadcasting some key information is integral to any speech or presentation but…..

If all we are is a fountain of facts and figures don’t we risk that our message will fall flat? If we dish out dry data at best our audience will be indifferent, at worst, they may die of boredom.

Without any feelings invested in a presentation we are missing an opportunity to connect with our audience in a way that is much less like hard work. If we can tap into their emotions we can have a much greater and long lasting impact and influence. In short, a feeling is worth a thousand facts!

So how do we add this magic ingredient to our public speaking?

Step 1)

F***Ing Intention. How do you want the audience to feel after your presentation? Keep this goal clear in your mind.

Step 2)

F***ing Content. Use simple language, less jargon and include analogies or stories that any living, breathing, feeling human can relate to.

Step 3)

F***ing Delivery. You get out what you put in so if you want your audience to feel emboldened for example (see step 1) you will have to bring that energy to your talk. Words do not speak for themselves, they require commitment, tone and energy to hit our audience with full f***ing force.

Step 4)

F***ing Feedback. Get some feedback from a coach or colleague. Practice in front of them and ask how they feel after your presentation (see Step 1).

I’ll leave you with the immortal words of Maya Angelou.

People will forget what you said, they will forget what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

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