It's not a trick question or me trying to bait you into something. But really, as speaker, presenter or workshop leader, do you have valuable content to offer your audience?
For the past few days I've been finishing up an application for a speakers bureau group. I was asked to comment on the previous question. Why? Because people attend seminars and workshops for various reasons. They all center around their needs and wants. Period.
If we don't offer valuable content to our audience, we risk losing their trust - them trusting that we as the speaker can provide solutions to their problems.
My favorite speaker, Joel Weldon, says speakers must make it a priority to focus on the customer during each engagement.
How do you do this? Take some before the engagement to identify the problems your audience may be experiencing. It requires some work but it is worth it.
Secondly, have a 'check-in' period with your audience during your presentation. Weldon suggests adding a few periods to your presentation timeline. This will allow you to get back on track--if by chance you lose your way.
Finally, be yourself when you present. Audiences can spot imitators from a mile away, and you can bet they will prefer the original. You have your own unique style so build on that and don't try be like another speaker.
Let me close with my opening question-- do you have something valuable to offer your audience?
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