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The public speaking blogs have recently had a
lot to say about the importance of being “natural” when you speak.
Indeed, one of the most common pieces of advice for speakers is
“Speak to the audience like you’re having a beer with them.” It’s
advice we give all the time.
But the idea of “naturalness” is a little deceptive. When you’re
standing in front of a room of listeners, you don’t feel natural. In
that circumstance, you don’t feel like you’re having a beer.
So what do you do?
First you need to know your material cold. If you don’t know what
you’re going to say extremely well, then you’re not going to be able
to come across as “natural.”
Next, you need to exaggerate the energy, giving more facial and
vocal energy than you’d otherwise use “naturally.” For most people,
that exaggerated style will come across as “natural.” That
exaggerated style will overwhelm the anxiety and come across as highly
connected. It won’t necessarily feel “natural” to the speaker. But
it will look natural to the audience.
And it’s better to look natural than to feel natural.
At Speechworks we
help our clients learn how to communicate in a way that connects and
persuades. If you’re interested in becoming a great communicator
give us a call at 404-266-0888 or check out our website at
www.speechworks.net.
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