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| First Person: Industry View |
Literally Speaking
Stanley Zareff
01/01/2005
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Whether we admit it or not, physical appearance is also vital. As you stand before an audience, you will be judged on how you look within 15 to 30 seconds. The perfect choice in your tie or blouse can make a big difference in the way people perceive you. We have all seen those dress-for-success gurus on morning talk shows. Well, there is truth to all of that; it does matter how you look. And how you look contributes in a big way to how you feel and the authority you project.
Remember that your performance is cyclical. You, the speaker, are motivated by your commitment and personal belief in your message. You send the message to the audience. The audience receives the message and relates it to their experience. They respond and react to your message and feed that response back to you, the speaker. This is the way you connect and know how effective you are. Talk to the audience, not at them. Finally, do not be afraid of the basics of public speaking: stand straight, knees bent slightly, shoulders back, arms relaxed at the side, head on straight, anchor yourself with one specific person in the audience with whom you connect, then breathe. Connect. Unclench your fists and let the speech take you there.
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