HELLO

by Jason Petzke, ACB, ALB

Since joining Toastmasters in 2014, I have watched, listened, and learned from some of the finest speakers Toastmaster Clubs have to offer. During that time, I have observed five (5) highly effective techniques frequently employed by these skilled communicators.

It all starts with H E L L O.

Hello – it’s such a powerful word. It can create long-lasting relationships and unbreakable bonds between complete strangers. It can also be a helpful acronym when preparing for your next speech. Here‘s how.

H is for HUMOR Not all humor is appropriate all the time. However, some humor is appropriate almost anytime. Take for example the eulogy George W. Bush gave at his father’s funeral on December 5th, 2018. President Bush respectfully suggested his father’s disdain for broccoli was passed-on genetically. It was a tasteful way to bring humor to a somber moment. A quick wit joke can get the endorphins flowing making for a receptive bunch-of-people. Always have one at the ready.

E is for ENERGY – More specifically high energy or emotion. A show of passion can uplift and excite nearly any audience. One of the best examples of high energy in action is Tony Robbins. He fills entire arenas with roaring crowds wherever he speaks. I suggest pouring-it-on.

L is for LESSON – Make your message worth listening to by having a learning lesson or a call-to-action. Better yet – have both! This is a must! In his TED talk TED’s secret to great public speaking, Chris Anderson lays out a strong case to “end with an inspiring call to action.” Worth-a-watch.

L is for LEAD – As speaker, you are the conductor and your listeners are the musicians. They should be the performers, sleuths, and heroes of your stories. Guide your audience to your message with simple cause-and-effect tales. Let them do the rest. Dr. Martin Luther King’s speech – I Have a Dream is a great example of how an expert orator leads an audience. The best speakers are storytellers, what’s your story?

O is for OUTFIT – Your outfit is your costume or uniform. Otherwise, it’s your best suit or pantsuit. A good rule of thumb is dress better than your audience. Dr. Robert Cialdini, author of Influence Science and Practice, says research shows that appearance can dramatically affect how your message is received. Your outfit should include any objects that support your message – like photos, slides, and props. These items act as visual artifacts that draw your audience closer to the story.

The next time you prepare to give a speech, consider these five (5) easy-to-use techniques before you even say “HELLO!”

By Jason Petzke, ACB, ALB

YouAreHereMedia.com