Life-long learning: London edition. Here are 3+1 insights from last Saturday’s Impact! Public speaking conference in London, organized by the Professional Speaking Association.
I woke up at 3:30 am (2:30 UK time🥱), took the first flight, and still missed the beginning… Nevertheless, it was worth it. Here is a selection of the insights from the conference that can help you become a better speaker.
1️ Prepare like a pro athlete.
Abigail Irozuru talked about her experience as an Olympian athlete and how she uses her sports background to prepare mentally for public speaking. Although I have never been an elite athlete, I utilize similar techniques before high-stakes presentations. And so should you.
2️ Stand out for the right reason.
Darren Harris talked about the importance of standing for your professional skills and achievements rather than for superficial alternatives. He also gave a masterclass in using humor in a presentation, which probably merits a separate post. The best way to stand out is to provide such high standards that they can’t ignore you.
3️ Find your funny.
In the first ask the expert session, we had a small-group discussion with Paul Dornan. My favorite takeaway: as a public speaker, you don’t need to be a comedian to use humor. Find your unique way of being funny.
➕ 1️ Kick-arse communication.
In Felicity Wingrove‘s Ask the Expert session, we discussed how public speakers can communicate effectively… off the stage. 😱 😱 😱 This is a lot more challenging for me than speaking on stage. 😊 Felicity shared her Five Pillars of PR that can help you to effectively use traditional media and LinkedIn to reach the right people. Keep in mind, kick-arse communication is not only important on the stage.
A public speaking conference is a fun and educational event. It was my first PSA experience, and I am happy I participated. I already applied some of my new knowledge in a corporate session yesterday and will continue to do so in my future sessions. See you in one of them? 😊
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