How can the element of Air, and its properties, help us to become better presenters? This quotation from late American novelist Toni Morrison, known for her critically acclaimed novels Song of Solomon and Beloved (the latter of which won her the Pulitzer prize), is a perfect introduction to the notion of harnessing the air. This line from Song of Solomon alludes that to take to the skies, to be carried by the air, comes at a cost.
The latest innovation from Ideas on Stage that will revolutionise the world of public speaking! As I was writing my upcoming book, “Confident Presenter”, our team at Ideas on Stage started working on a super exciting project that will complement the book. It’s a hypnosis tape that can instantly turn anyone into a confident presenter. Using the latest in hypnosis technology – Advanced Personality Reinstallation through Immersive Listening – the tape taps into your subconscious mind and unlocks your hidden talents.
On the 7th of March, more than 200 business leaders attended our virtual event, “Zen and the Art of Presenting with Impact”, featuring renowned speaker Garr Reynolds. Garr covered three key principles: Restraint Simplicity Naturalness Under the principle of Restraint in preparation, Garr emphasised the importance of planning presentations analogue and having the courage to remove unnecessary details in service of the audience. He also shared tips on creating a clear presentation structure.
How does the element of fire help us presenters? Oscar Wilde was one of Ireland’s most celebrated playwrights. He was a master wordsmith of wit and observation. He wrote some of the English languages most famous stories and plays including the Importance of Being Earnest and A picture of Dorian Gray. In this particular quote from Lord Henry Wooton, a character from Dorian Gray: “What fire doesn’t destroy it hardens” it is referring to the strong “character” of another female protagonist.
Ideas don’t sell themselves. If you want to persuade others to act on your ideas, you need to be an effective communicator. We’ve recently hosted a special masterclass with the one and only Carmine Gallo as a guest speaker. Carmine Gallo is a communication coach for the world’s most admired brands. He’s a Harvard instructor, leadership advisor, and bestselling author whose books have been translated into more than 40 languages.
The best things in life are often the simplest. Some of the best meals I‘ve ever eaten have been simple一just high quality ingredients presented in an uncomplicated way. However, it can take a chef many years of training and experience to learn that lesson. The same is true in lots of other areas of life, not least art. Look at Pablo Picasso’s famous set of drawing called The Bull from 1945.
The most likely reason for any setbacks and disappointments in your business, role or career is a communication deficiency—or lack of communication skills. If you can’t convey your ideas to others then you won’t be able to reach your true potential. The number one factor holding people back in their lives, especially in business, is poor communication skills. If your business isn’t growing, there’s a communication deficiency. If you’re finding it hard to lead your team, there’s a communication deficiency.
When I start working with clients to help them improve their presentations they often push back and resist change. I encourage business leaders to use a mix of logic and emotion, tell stories, include audience interactions and use eye contact and gestures. A common concern is that the changes I suggest feel ‘fake’ and ‘inauthentic’. People say things like, ‘this is not me’ and ‘I don’t want to act like someone I’m not’.