Every Second Matters
Dr. Delatorro McNeal II, MS, CSP, CPAE
Hall of Fame Keynote Speaker | Peak Performance Expert | Wall Street Journal & USA Today Best Selling Author | 4x MDRT Keynote Speaker | TV & Film Personality | Presentation Skills Master Trainer
Anytime you open your mouth before any audience, you have about 3 seconds to grab their attention and hold it. Yes, we know that first impressions are vital. We do not, however, always recognize that first impressions go far beyond wardrobe and looks. Your outer appearance can be phenomenal; but when what you say doesn't match what you're wearing, you're just dressing up for the funeral of your second invitation. Ouch!
Some people make the mistake of giving a long introduction when speaking. They want to tell their name, title, where they're from, and provide a list of other insignificant bullet points. While it's ok to let the audience know who you are, they need to feel who you are first...and it all starts with a story!
Stories have the ability to put your listener exactly where you want them. Whether the story is based on a childhood experience or rooted in a fun excerpt from your travels, you have to grab their attention by making them an intricate part of what you're saying. It must be relatable and imaginative.
People like stories that ultimately distract them with 3 ingredients:
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Ironically, most people will never admit that they like to be distracted with those story types; however, they always work. Even when in front of the most influential people in the world, you must remember that they are still human beings. And human beings like to laugh. They like to feel. They like to learn things they can apply to life.
With that being said, imagine how much greater your presentations and speeches could be if you learned to bring the right beginning to your introduction.
I invite you to check out this video and discover how to grab your audience's attention immediately. While storytelling is definitely number one, there is so much more. You deserve to learn the best ways to open up a presentation. Since your audience is there, give them something to remember you by - in a good way.
I recognize that not everyone is comfortable with storytelling, and more, when trying to present in front of any crowd. That's why I train and mentor the world's best influencers, speakers, authors, and entrepreneurs on how to crush it every single time they walk on the stage. Those first 3 seconds matter.
If you read this article, watched the video, and know that there are some areas you struggle in, let me help you. There's still time to register for our upcoming Crush The Stage Speaker Training Bootcamp! I challenge you to meet me in Tampa on April 3-5, 2023. For more information, click below.
Advocate + Speaker + Connector & Catalyst
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