You Are the Presentation

“The key to communication is not what we say, but rather the attitude that lies behind what we say.” Marianne WilliamsonWhile delivering a 2-day engaging communication workshop for a client last week, I was reminded of a highly effective principle that’s rarely utilized. It’s called: You Are The Presentation. Perhaps it’s best illustrated by an experience I had with my youngest daughter when she was a burgeoning teen.

Carley was born with electric blue eyes. Big. Round. Captivating eyes. When people met her for the first time, they were immediately drawn to them. At thirteen years old Carley approached me and said, “Dad, I want to try makeup.” I replied, “Okay, lets start with eyeliner. Go in the bathroom, apply the eyeliner, then I’ll give you my opinion.”

A half-hour later, Carley reappeared. At first I didn’t recognize her. “Carley, is that you,” I asked the girl with black rings encircling her eyes. She looked likePetey,the dog from theLittle Rascals. I recommended she return to the bathroom, wash her face and try again. “Carley, I don’t think makeup is supposed to be the main attraction, it’s designed to highlight your beauty that’s already present.”

Today, while helping clients master communication skills, I recognize that many people default to Carley’s early view of makeup. Only, instead of hiding behind excessively applied eyeliner, these corporate professionals take cover behind podiums, PowerPoint slides, and elaborately constructed demonstrations or exhibits. This behavior stems from a common belief that tells us we’re not enough—that we lack what it takes to engage our audience and be memorable. We simply doubt our own capability and power.

Whether you’re speaking at a team meeting, an executive report-out, a local civic club, or a large conference, the audience yearns to make a human connection with you. Resist the temptation to outsource your power to “things” that can never bond with your listeners like you can. As an engaging communicator it’s okay to insert a few slides, a short video, or refer to an innovative product. Remember, you’re the one who breathes life into your message. You make the presentation memorable. Ultimately, you are the presentation. Own it!

Leave your comments:How might your communication be more engaging and memorable if you believed the principle: You Are The Presentation?