Thank you for tuning in to episode 3 of the You’re Worth It! Podcast. I’m so thrilled to be sharing with you today something that is SO important to embrace for leaders.
“Where else can an introvert make more money than a brain surgeon from their iPad in their yoga pants?”
This was the opening line to my speech to 12,000 people at the MGM Garden Grand Arena in Las Vegas and I was scared out of my freaking mind. To be honest, public speaking is not my best asset it is something that I have learned a lot about and I strive to get better at it. As you know leaders are not avoiders so public speaking is something that you can NOT avoid. I’m not saying you should be comfortable heck I’m not even comfortable public speaking yet. But it is something I’ve practiced learn strategies that help me cope with the fear of speaking to a large group of people, and I want to share these with you.
Listed below are two books that have really helped me with the skills I need to be a better public speaker. I highly recommend them to advance your speaking talents.
Talk like Ted by Carmine Gallo
Stories That Stick by Kindra Hall
I have 5 tips you help you prepare to public speak.
Content- I know it’s tempting to go off the cuff, but I highly recommend making sure your content is prepared and organized. Storytelling helps people make real-life connections to you and your message. Choose to add something in that people can relate to and memorable that will evoke laughter, tears or change.
Rehearse- Respect your time limit and practice your speech. I really recommend practicing in front of real people to help you with delivery.
Visualize your end result- I want you to think about the main goal for your speech as you’re going on stage. Picture yourself after your speech, knowing you killed it and it went amazing. Think about the value you’re providing! It will help your confidence on stage.
Ease nerves- You may need to jump up and down, you may need to sit quietly and read over your materials, whatever it is that comforts you before a speaking engagement take note and lean on that for future speeches. No judgment, I’m often antsy and circle the room in prayer to stay grounded.
Own it!- Stand tall, speak with boldness, be proud of your message and laugh at yourself if you mess up and move on!
I challenge you to do a live video! It can be on Facebook or Instagram, just do it! You don’t have to be an expert just know a little bit more than most people. Educate, Entertain or Empower your audience. Just pick one, prepare your content, keep it short and simple and GO for it! You’ve got this! And if you’ve never done a live before I want to know so I can cheer you on! Send me a DM on Instagram or a quick email and let me know contact@jessicahefley.com.
You’ve got this and you’re ready or more prepared for your next speaking event small or big!
I’m SO glad you’re joining me on this journey of finding your self-worth. Your support means everything to me! Please subscribe, rate and review the podcast to help us grow this message and serve more people!
If you would like to get in touch, head over to jessicahefley.com to see the free resources, collaborate or just send us a message!