Last week. I heard a terrific presentation by executive coach Ann Gallagher at the October Ross Leadership Hour. She generously shared a lot of good information and helpful tips on “The Five Cs” of executive presence; confidence, connection, clarity, communication, and credibility.
One of Ann’s suggestions was about calming the case of nerves many people get before public speaking. Most of us, I dare say, feel some anxiety before speaking in front of a group. Whether it’s a presentaton at work to a handful of peers or speaking as an expert in front of hundreds, the jitters usually show up a little while before go-time, no matter how well-prepared we are. This really hit home with me, as I’m speaking at the Ohio Diversity & Leadership Conference today!
Ann suggested that instead of worrying about what we’re about to say, how we look, or what questions we might be asked, we should “focus on the people in front of you; how you can make a difference for them.”
Just thinking about that gives me a sense of calm. I’m not speaking to entertain. I’m not speaking to pass some kind of a test. My goal is to share information that will be helpful to the people in attendance. My goal is to serve.
My topic today is generational diversity in the workplace. I am well-prepared. I’ve done a lot of research in the last few weeks. I also have a lot of direct experience, having led a multi-generational workforce for nearly twenty years. And, I have a relevant academic background as a recent leadership and communications graduate from Otterbein University.
Additionally, the people listening to me today have chosen to attend my panel, so they are already interested in what I and the other panelists will say. Instead of worrying about delivering a speech, I’m shifting my attention to serving the audience. That will make a world of difference in my comfort level and approach.
The next time you have to speak in front of a group, consider Ann’s advice. View your public speaking as a service not a performance. And, don’t forget the five Cs! Communicate with confidence, clarity, and credibility and you will make a connection.
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Photo by Evan Forester used with Creative Commons license.
