Page 82 - How To Sell Yourself

Selling Yourself As a Speaker 81
• The height of the lectern. (Short people shouldn’t hesitate to ask for a solid box to stand on.)
• The setting of the stage: head table, lots of gadgetry and equipment for other speakers’ visuals.
• The lighting in relation to your ability to see your text, outline, or notes.
• Don’t leave any room for surprises.
The occasion
If you’re expected to be hilarious (a roast) or touching (a memorial service), you’d better know about it in advance. This may seem ridiculous and far-fetched, but I know people who were shocked to realize at the last minute that the remarks they had prepared were totally inappropriate for the situation.
The format
Pick what works best for you. You can choose to speak from a prepared text, an outline, notes, or nothing. I urge you to pick what works best for you. But whatever format you choose, start by preparing a text. It will help a lot. It gives you the chance to look at it, change it, shape it, give it form, and practice it. And remember, it isn’t beyond belief that someone will ask you for a copy of your speech.
The length
When you like your text a lot, cut it by a third. Keep it short and simple. Today’s attention span is limited.
The style
Write conversational sentences. Great literature rarely makes great speeches. And keep in mind that speeches are meant to be spoken, not read. That may sound foolish, but I assure you it isn’t. Take a look at a book of great speeches and see how false many of the words sound when you say them out loud.
Preparing and delivering your words Write for the ear!
Make sure the words sound like you in animated conversation. Get rid of jargon, “governmentese,” legalese, insider language,