Speakery Notes

Marcus John Henry Brown

With a mix of in-depth interviews with international keynote speakers and professional communicators, The Speaker Notes Podcast is the definitive podcast for PowerPoint heroes, keynote speakers, and anyone eager to enhance their presentation skills.

  1. Never stand in front of an audience without knowing who they are.

    09.01.2024 · BONUS

    Never stand in front of an audience without knowing who they are.

    Never stand in front of an audience without knowing who they are. Take a moment, just five minutes, to jot down everything you know about your audience. Are they industry professionals, eager learners, or seasoned veterans? Understanding their interests and reasons for attending your talk – be it a conference, a meeting, or a virtual call – is paramount. Not a big audience? Then, personalization is key, especially with those presentations and pitches that take place in smaller and more intimate settings. You know, presentations with a gathering of fewer than twenty participants. Learn their names and delve into their professional backgrounds. A quick visit to LinkedIn could reveal a wealth of information. Where have they worked? What experiences have they amassed? It's not just about titles; it's about the journey they've traversed within your industry. Then, challenge yourself further. What don't you know about them? This list might be lengthier and perhaps a little daunting, too, but remember, you're not just any presenter. You do your preparation. You're a storyteller and a translator of ideas; as such, you want to make sure you're sharing ideas that will work for the people sitting in front of you.  Armed with these two lists, begin to build your presentation strategy. Transform uncertainty into clarity, the unknown into the known. Let's assume you've been asked to speak at a conference. Make sure you're clear about what kind of conference it is. The audience of a marketing conference differs from that of an international sports or estate agent conference. Who will be in the audience? What are their aspirations, their challenges? Your task is to answer their silent yet ever-present question: 'What's in it for me? How can you answer their "What's in it for me?" question? You'll only know how if you know who is sitting there. To truly resonate and genuinely connect, you must understand who sits before you. It's a dialogue, a conversation, albeit sometimes silent, between you and them.

    4 Min.
  2. Why you should want to get better at presenting.

    07.01.2024 · BONUS

    Why you should want to get better at presenting.

    For many, the immediate goal is simple – survival. The idea of standing in front of an audience, even virtually, is daunting. The aim? Get through it without embarrassment—without making a total utter fool of yourself! It's an understandable sentiment but intrinsically focused on the self, not the audience. Then, there's the allure of financial gain. With its tantalizing rumours of hefty paychecks earned by the likes of Scott Galloway or Michelle Obama, the conference circuit tempts many. But when the primary driver is the paycheck, not the impact, we must question the depth and authenticity of such ambitions. Others see public speaking as a tool – a means to enhance their personal brand, to sell more products, win pitches, or secure funding. It's strategic, yes, but does it transcend beyond mere self-interest? Now, let's turn the mirror towards ourselves. What motivates you? Is your journey marked by a selfish desire, or are you fueled by a story that yearns to be told, one that is urgent, important, bursting to be told and can genuinely impact others? Imagine the possibilities when your focus shifts from surviving to thriving, from self to audience. Consider the profound difference you can make when your presentations aren't just about looking good in front of peers or bosses but about enriching the lives of your listeners and your customers. Each of us has a unique story, a message that can resonate and inspire. It's about finding that narrative within you – one that's not just heard but felt and remembered. In becoming a compelling presenter, challenge yourself to look beyond the surface. It's not just about honing skills; it's about nurturing a purpose that extends beyond you. It's about taking tiny steps towards mastering the story the audience needs to hear. It's about having a positive impact on your audience. That's why you should want to get better at presenting.

    4 Min.

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With a mix of in-depth interviews with international keynote speakers and professional communicators, The Speaker Notes Podcast is the definitive podcast for PowerPoint heroes, keynote speakers, and anyone eager to enhance their presentation skills.