I don't know if it's true, but I've heard that people are more afraid of making a speech than they are of dieing. I do know that many people I work with are “scared to death” by the thought of speaking in public, much less actually having to walk in front of a room and speak.

You know, it's really hard to be BOLD if you're terrified. If the above describes you, read on. I'm going to share an idea that will help take away some of the fear and improve your performance.

Let's begin when get the invitation to speak. What did they ask you to speak about? It's about something you know well, or at least you should know well, right? For example, if you're a marketing consultant, it's probably something to do with marketing. (duh) If you're an architect, it may be about the top 5 features that make a great house.

Now, here's the key to a great speech and one that's easy to put together-
STORIES.

Do you know any stories relating about your work? How about memorable incidents in your life or career?

They don't have to be stories about you. For example, the architect can tell Frank Lloyd Wright stories. Stories communicate messages in a more personal and powerful way than reciting facts and figures.

Stories are the way that human beings naturally organize, remember and share information. That means stories are also easier for you to remember than the lists of facts and figures – which means your audience will remember them, too.

There's another advantage to using stories to organize your speech. You can make lots of different points from the same story. Pick a story you want to tell the audience. Then determine what points it makes for them.

Stories are the best human communications tool ever invented. Humans have been using them to communicate and pass down history since before time was recorded. Stories will make your speeches better and make you more comfortable delivering them.

Action Steps
Write down notes on three stories or incidents about your work.

Start a "stories" file with notes on stories you like.

If you're scared of making speeches, you should know that the thing that makes them great also makes them easier to give. Practice, practice, practice. Contact a Rotary Club, Kiwanis Club or Business Association and inquire about speaking opportunities. Be BOLD!

Sponsored by Bold Vision Consulting, the Ocular Forum is a membership based confidential peer group for non-competing business owners and independent professionals eager to support each other in growing a successful business.

An Ocular Forum membership supports long-term and annual planning helping you keep your eye on the “prize”, gives you a system for implementation and follow through, support, encouragement, and confidential advice while holding you accountable for taking the actions important to your success. There are two Ocular Forum memberships being formed:

Portland Maine – Applications due September 14
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