Finding Your Audience: You're a Banana Lighthouse in a Tailored Suit

Yeah, I’m something of an acquired taste. Some people like how I present myself. And sometimes, they like what I have to say or write.

Other people? Not so much. They don’t like me. And they don’t like what I have to say.

And that’s normal! I don’t have to please everyone. It would be weird and exhausting if I tried. And it wouldn't work, no matter how much effort I put into being universally likable.

This goes for you, too. You’re not going to please everyone. And you’d weaken your message or burn out if you tried! And that serves no one.

Not everyone will agree with you, like you, or even care about what you have to say. And that’s perfectly okay! The trick for public speakers is to put your focus on those who are interested, engaged, or supportive.

The Banana Analogy

Think of it this way: you’re a juicy, ripe banana. (Stay with me here.)

Now, some people adore bananas—they're practically swinging from the trees to get to you! Others might be allergic, indifferent, or just plain prefer apples.

Don't waste your energy trying to convince the apple-lovers of the world that they should really prefer bananas. Instead, aim to be the best banana you can be for those who already appreciate your potassium-rich goodness.

Your audience will respect you more when you present yourself with confidence and genuineness. Plus, if you’re a banana trying to be an apple, the apple lovers will quickly sniff you out as an imposter. You really can’t win at being an apple when you’re a banana.

The Lighthouse Metaphor

OK. Remember when I said to think of yourself as a banana? Now think of yourself as a lighthouse.

You’re steadfast and true. You’re guiding ships through the foggy night.

The ships that need your light will find you. The others? They’ll need to steer their own course.

And that’s how it should be. You can’t control the sea, but you can control how brightly you shine.

The Tailored Suit Simile

Your aspiration isn’t to be a one-size-fits-all speaker. You’re really not just a banana and a lighthouse. You’re way more than that!

Now you’re like a well-tailored suit, too. You’re the perfect fit for those who need you, and a respectable option for those who don’t.

The next time you step up to the microphone, embrace your inner banana, your shining lighthouse, and wear your own bespoke suit. Speak your truth with humor, heart, or even a dash of wildly mixed metaphors!

You don’t have to please everyone—just the ones who matter in the moment. Now, go out there and give 'em a piece of your mind. And make sure it's a juicy piece, filled with your natural goodness!

What's Laura Up To Now?

• It's May, so naturally, I'm working on educational toy products for Halloween and Christmas. And a new toy is all designed and ready to go up on the site: maybe next week? We'll see.
• For the past few weeks, I've been working with people who are already SO GOOD at delivering their messages that my role has been less "improving skill set" and more "improving mindset." That's right: even those with A-list aptitude often need a cheer session to get back into the game. If you find you need to get your groove back, you can schedule a mojo meetup with me. Or your can write to me and ask me to give you a bit of a pep talk here in this newsletter.
• And of course, if you need a skill set boost, you can take my public speaking courses right here on LinkedIn! These training videos are all free to LinkedIn Premium members.