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by Sara Schaffer |
Introduce Someone Else Like A Pro
"Don't worry," the speaker began, "my talk won't
be as long as that introduction!" We all laughed
at her comment about the windy and lengthy set up
the emcee had given her. We had heard almost all of
this woman's life story, and I wondered what she had
left to share with us in the presentation!
How does one successfully prepare an audience for a speaker? Ideally, your speaker will have emailed an intro to you prior to the meeting. If however, you need to create something on your own, here are 4 hints to successfully introduce them like a pro! #1 - Research. To put together a great intro, take some time and get to know the speaker. Go online and look for biographical information on their website. Read articles or books they've written. Email or call them with questions. Discover what background they have that makes them a good fit for this group. #2 - Write. As you gather info about the presenter, start to compose an introduction that is relevant to the audience. Explain their professional background and credentials. Discuss the reason they were chosen as the speaker for the day. Also, include some other information that adds human interest such as, "Sara is also a marathoner." #3 - DON'T ramble. If you know the presenter, avoid sharing about everything you know about them. Keep it focused on the event and audience at hand. Conclude your introduction with the title of the talk and their name. When people hear the speaker's name, that will be a cue to them to applaud. #4 - Rehearse. Once you have a concise, strong intro, stand up and say it out loud. Practicing your introduction will reveal any phrases that read well but may be awkward to articulate. It will also help you introduce the speaker with enthusiasm and confidence! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Are you keeping it a secret? Tell a friend about these newsletters full of great free speaking tips and the other great resources available from Present Like A Pro! ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Don't turn off your audience by giving an improvised introduction. Take a few minutes to learn something about the speaker and prepare an introduction that will get the audience excited to listen to them. Be brief and enthusiastic, and always end the intro with their name. The next time you're in a meeting or at an event, listen to the introductions. Take note of the style, content and energy of the presenter and your response to them. When you create and deliver a terrific introduction, you Present Like A Pro! |
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As I was driving to a talk the other day, I started
to question myself. Why was I inching toward
the blinding rising sun along with every other
commuter in the metro area? Where exactly was I
going? Would I get there on time? Why had I chosen
such uncomfortable clothes?
And the big question - was this going to be worth it? As I entered the country club and met the ladies I would be speaking to, I started to feel better. I had found the place with a few minutes to spare. So far, so good. The meeting began, and I happily enjoyed the quiche and coffee as I listened to the musicians. A few minutes later, it was time to present. The talk went well, and I was rewarded with laughter and smiles from my listeners as I spoke. The meeting was over a few minutes after my presentation. As I greeted people leaving the meeting, many had smiles and kind words. Then came a woman who reached out to hug me. As she leaned in, she started to whisper something. She was struggling, and my talk was comforting to her. She didn't feel alone anymore. Someone else understood her hurt. Somehow, I didn't feel alone anymore, either. I met several other women that day who lives had been positively impacted by what I shared. I cherished each of their stories as we briefly met at the door. Later as I debriefed the meeting with the chairperson, and she concluded that the morning had been a great success. As I got in my car to leave, I sat there for a few minutes and said a short prayer of thanks. Despite the uncomfortable clothes, morning traffic, and unfamiliar meeting location, I also had to conclude that it was definitely worth it! |
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Have you told someone else recently about the
great speaking tips you get for free every week in
your email? Are you keeping it a secret?
We invite you to share this handy speaking tool with others that may benefit from the terrific tips and encouraging topics! Also, feel free to check out past issues of our newsletters on our website. If you can't find what you're looking for, then simply email Sara with your questions about your next presentation! Let The Secret Out! Forward this email to a friend! |
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Need A Speaker? In addition to presentation
coaching, Sara regularly speaks to corporate and
community groups. Whether you are looking for
something educational, motivational or inspirational,
she will add humor and depth to your next special
event. For booking information, contact Sara
today at: 303-818-2509 or
sara@presentlikeapro.com.
Do you work at Ball Aerospace? If so, you can receive Presentation Coaching as part of the training offered by your company! Find out more at the TLC website. Just click on the Other Development link to get to the coaching corner. Visit our website to view previous newsletters and to find out more about the free surveys available from Present Like A Pro. |
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