Page 182 - How To Sell Yourself

The “Selling Yourself” Handbook 181
scriptive words and the strong action words. The open face and the gesture are the two techniques that make the most profound difference in a speaker’s acceptance and enjoyment by an audi- ence.
Be open, giving, warm, friendly, and loving
All the other suggestions are wrapped up into this one. When you love your audience, the audience loves you back. That’s when communication is at its purest and most perfect. The audience concentrates exclusively on the message it’s getting. Again, remem- ber the baby. It doesn’t understand your words, but your love sends the signals that are perfect and the message is complete.
Speak in a quiet, conversational voice
This really takes work and concentration until it becomes a habit. A loud voice is a turn-off. It’s only successful with young people and their music. Otherwise, loud is offensive. Soft is sooth- ing, comforting, and satisfying.
Pause
Trust your audience. They’ll wait for you if your pause is ef- fective. It will even heighten their understanding of your message. Don’t move your mouth until your mind is in high gear. The pause gives you a chance to think clearly so that what you say will be the best message you can deliver at that moment.
Think silently
Nothing is more frustrating...uh...than the...uh...person who...uh...never gets to the...uh...end.
Stay calm and reasonable
Nothing is more embarrassing than being in the presence of two people who are screaming at each other. Neither wins your support or your sympathy. The one who appears to be reason- able, sensible, trying to be reassuring usually wins. Let it be you.