Avoid These Pitfalls in Presenting and Public Speaking
By Patrick J. Donadio, MBA, CSP, MCC
My first paid speaking engagement was a disaster!
First, I was so nervous that I forgot my opening. Next, I had memorized my speech, and halfway through, I lost my place. So, I ended up reading the rest of the speech from my notes. This caused me to have poor eye contact with the audience, which in turn made me even more nervous and flustered. It got so bad that I abruptly ended my talk and forgot to close the speech. What a nightmare!
In openings avoid:
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An apology. The audience doesn’t know what your problems are, so why tell them?
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A slow start. Open with enthusiasm!
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An over-used cliché.
In closings avoid:
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An irrelevant joke used just for a laugh.
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Abrupt endings. For example, avoid saying, “Well, that is all I have to say,” to announce your close.
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Endings that are too long and drawn out. Plan your closing in advance so you conclude your presentation with polish.
Register for Patrick Donadio’s next MAPS course:
Time Management Strategies, June 1
© Copyright 2022 – Patrick Donadio. Excerpts from his book, Communicating with IMPACT©
Patrick Donadio, MBA, is a Certified Speaking Professional, Master Certified Coach and author of “Communicating with IMPACT.” As a communication strategist for more than 20 years, he delivers custom, engaging keynotes, practical training and one-on-one coaching. He has taught and coached two generations of leaders and their teams to apply his IMPACT© process to communicate clearly, lead effectively, present powerfully, listen attentively and make a greater IMPACT on their bottom line.
Connect with Patrick at 614-488-9164, email Patrick@PatrickDonadio.com, or visit Patrick Donadio online.