So, we’re all looking for ways to slim down so we can be at our summer beach-bod-best. I’m no different, but recently when dusting off my favorite healthy cookbooks, I realized that dieting is a lot like what can another major challenge for professional women – public speaking. In fact, there are more similarities than you may think. Looking and sounding your best are equally important contributors to your self confidence. And just like you’re trying to cut back on calories, use the same logic to eliminate extraneous words or messages when communicating in the business world. Consider the following factors when going through the same familiar motions this summer. You may inadvertently improve your public speaking, presentation and persuasion skills as well!
1. When you’re finished stop. This is probably the biggest challenge dieters and businesspeople share. It’s also applicable across different forms of communication – presentations, media interviews and more. People get into the worst trouble when they don’t know when to stop speaking. But, first, to know when to stop, you must plan. And that leads us to the next factor.
2. Plan. People who are trying to lose weight will often journal what they are eating on a daily basis and plan meals a week in advance. Public speaking is no different. Draft your key talking points, or an outline of your speech. But, consider this – in my experience a plan is nothing if it’s not executed flawlessly, so be sure to plan for plenty of practice time.
3. Exercise. Many of us know that it’s not enough to diet, exercise is just as important to weight loss. So why would public speaking be any different? While it’s great to have a plan, it’s useless if you don’t practice. It may feel silly at the time, but practice every communication (negotiating a raise with a boss) every minute you can (in the shower, on your commute).
4. Consult an expert. If you have the resources, it’s wise to call in the experts to help you get in shape, whether it’s a trainer, a nutritionist or both. Consider the same option if you’re trying to brush up on your public speaking skills. There are plenty of consultants and business coaches who specialize in this. And if you can’t afford professional help, consider joining your local Toastmasters club to learn in a group setting.
5. Evaluate. Dieters step on the scale every day to track their progress. It’s just as important to evaluate the results of your public speaking efforts. Consider videotaping or recording yourself and be sure to ask others to weigh in. They may notice a physical tick that you hadn’t noticed before. Either way, evaluating your speeches will only help you better prepare for your next one.
Photo by: kizette
