The One Word You Need to Remember When Presenting

The fear of public speaking is the most common phobia. Even thinking about an upcoming presentation can create anxiety. You might think, “I have so much to say…stakes are high…how do I get these ideas across…I don't want to look unprofessional.”

You’re not alone.

In this article, you’ll find what you need to feel more confident and clear for your next presentation.

Whether you're presenting to a client, a company, or hundreds of people, the butterflies will probably still be there. The good news is that you can improve and deliver presentations like superstars, inspiring action.

You are the expert at what you do. Here’s how to set yourself up for success when presenting.

It all starts with one word. This is the only word you need to remember whenever you feel lost or need to prepare your presentation. And that word is (drum roll) “connect.”

A presentation isn't about you; it's about your audience. Shift the focus from yourself to your audience.

Your goal isn't just to sell them an idea or solution; it's to connect with them on that idea and look at the problem or solution TOGETHER. To quote the theme from SNH 24: “Boldly Go.”

What do you want your audience to experience?

1. 1. What do you want them to feel? (e.g., reassured, inspired, motivated, hopeful)
2. 2. What do you want them to know/think? (e.g., this is easy, doable, saves money, saves time)
3. 3. What do you want them to do? (e.g., ask for a second meeting, start the next steps, implement the solution)

Notice that none of these examples are about you.

When asked, 'What do you want your audience to feel?' most people answer, 'I want them to feel confident in me.' That's like the old actor joke: 'Enough about me, what did you think of my last scene?'

Examples from the Scaling New Heights session

Recently, I had the privilege of sharing presentation and public speaking skills, tips, and techniques at Woodard’s Scaling New Heights 2024 in Orlando. We had about 100 open and engaged participants ready to elevate their presentation skills.

On a personal note, I was so impressed with everyone's vulnerability and support for each other in the room; it was truly a special two hours spent with this group.

One of the things we focused on was having a strong start. One that hooks your audience and creates trust and respect within the first moments.

Some ways to create a strong start

• Begin with the ending
• Share a personal story/anecdote
• Project into the future/look into the past

At the session, one attendee bravely volunteered to share their opening. Chris (I’m using a different name for them in this article) wanted to improve their sales presentations. Their original opening focused on their company's longevity and success. It lacked connection and didn't differentiate them from competitors.

A strong opening in your presentation means that within the first moments, the first impression you're creating is trust and that human connection (Hello AI!).

When asked if Chris had an anecdote, they could share it instead. Chris shifted now to tell us about helping a contractor who was overwhelmed. Their bookkeeping was a mess, and by working with Chris, they felt organized, and the contractor felt a huge weight off their shoulders.

Emotions for the win! That’s an example of using an anecdote to begin and connect.

Another example was a personal story; Stevie (names have been changed) felt lost in their opening and lacked confidence in public speaking. We learned that Stevie had previously been in a completely different field. One reason they switched to accounting was their belief that they could really help people. This truth and passion were so clear. And when Stevie stood up and spoke about it in front of 100 people, there was no trace of self-consciousness.

In that brief moment, Stevie captivated the entire room with their opening. Connection happened.

How you say it matters

Did you know?

For your message to be received:

• 55% is your body language and facial expressions (online, anyone?)
• 38% voice
• 7% words

People are often surprised by this, especially when they have great facts to share. But think about a time when someone was speaking, and it didn't quite feel right. For example, they might have said, 'This is really exciting,' but their facial expression, body language, and voice didn't match… so you didn't trust it.

This is why connection is so important in your presentation, especially in those first few moments. Because first impressions leave an imprinting belief. If your opening is sales or scripted, it’s just words, and your body language and tone of voice don't match the intentions.

If you’re wondering, the 3 takeaways from our ‘Present like a Superstar and Inspire Action’ session at Scaling New Heights 2024 were:

1. Opening—Not a sales pitch. Be real to engage (present, relevant, vulnerable)
2. Connect—Who's your audience, and why should they care?
3. Anecdotes—Where have you done this before, for whom, what happened?

You are the expert. Now, go connect with your audience.