Never forget the importance of opening words and lasting impressions.
I recently attended a full-day conference in London.
About an hour or so into the event, the next speaker took to the podium.
After two words, I had a feeling she was going to speak well.
Two words!
Seriously.
And the two words were not even particularly special words in themselves.
Speakers before and after used the exact same words.
‘Good morning.’
However, the way she said those words really stood out.
There was volume.
There was energy.
There was a sunny disposition.
She sounded and looked like she wanted to be there.
Before that point, the other speakers had sounded a little hesitant when they opened their remarks.
After that presentation, too many speakers sounded slightly apologetic when they started – their voice basically said… ‘I know this event has been going on for hours and you already heard a lot.’
My advice?
Really attack those first few words.
Plan in advance what they will be and do not change them.
Decide how you want to deliver them.
And say them out loud, several times, until you are happy with how they sound.
Obviously, this alone will not save an otherwise poor presentation.
However, it is surprising how often those first few words make an impact.
And it is equally surprising how few people put anything into them.
So, remember the importance of your opening words and the lasting impression they can leave.
For more guidance and advice when it comes to presenting and engaging with your audience.
Check out the following article on giving your audience a reason to listen to you..
