Getting the opportunity for a big speaking gig is akin to receiving a family heirloom. It’s rare, precious, and has the potential to be worth a significant amount – not just in terms of monetary value but also in the impact it can have on your audience. However, much like inheriting a family heirloom, being asked to speak at a conference can evoke mixed emotions.
The initial excitement of receiving such an opportunity can quickly give way to a sense of bewilderment. You might find yourself wondering, “WTF?” Similar to being handed an heirloom that leaves you scratching your head, a speaking gig can be overwhelming, causing you to worry excessively and even feel physically unwell. It may even prompt your own moment of WTF where you:
W – worry about it,
T – think too much, and might even
F – feel sick.
The fear of not living up to expectations or the pressure to deliver a flawless performance can be paralyzing. The concern that your audience might react negatively can make the whole experience daunting. It’s a situation where you’re not just handed a family heirloom; you’re also given the responsibility of ensuring it doesn’t collect dust on a shelf.
Being put on the shelf as a speaker is a common fear, where the audience seems disinterested, inattentive, or disengaged. You imagine a scenario where they sit and stare blankly, urging you to hurry up and finish, or worse, exit the room altogether. This fear is compounded by the dreaded sight of attendees looking at their phones or, in extreme cases, succumbing to sleep.
No speaker wants to end up on the SHELF, where the audience:
S – Sit and Stare. Or they want you to
H – Hurry Up and Finish. Or they’ll
E – Exit the Room,
L – Look at their phone, or maybe even
F – Fall asleep.
However, the key to a successful speaking gig lies in shifting the focus away from oneself and onto the audience. Concentrate on what you can do for your audience instead of worrying about how you will be received. Treat your speaking opportunity as a family heirloom that should be USED, not merely admired on a SHELF.
To ensure your message resonates, make it
U – Useful,
S – Simple, and
E – Easy to understand. Then, make sure the audience can
D – Do something with it.
By making the session valuable for your audience, you transform the speaking gig into an opportunity to serve rather than a performance to be judged.
In conclusion, your next big speaking gig is not just a moment to showcase your skills; it’s a chance to provide value and make a lasting impact. Embrace the opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise, turning your family heirloom into a meaningful experience for both you and your audience.
If you want to enhance your speaking skills, consider joining my upcoming online masterclass on “How to Nail Your Next Big Speaking Gig.” Sign up here and unlock the secrets to delivering a memorable and impactful presentation.
