Shelly Horton talks about Media/Camera Presenting

I’ve been a journalist for 25 years now. Best job in the world as every day is different. I started the traditional way by doing a journalism degree. My first job was for ABC Radio in Melbourne as a crime reporter. I don’t want to sound like a weirdo but crime scenes fascinate me. 

Since then I’ve worked in all parts of the media; TV, newspapers, radio, online. 

These days most of my media work is with Channel Nine. I have weekly segments on Today Show, Today Extra, Weekend Today and the 3pm News; I’m also the lifestyle presenter for 9Honey.com.au and this year, I co-hosted a chat show on 9Life called, Talking Married, dissecting the fabulous train wreck that was Married At First Sight. 

I also run my own media and presentation training company, ShellShocked Media. I do one-on-one media training and I’ve just launched an online presentation training course.

Yep. I’m bloody busy.

Why are people so scared of public speaking and being on camera?

It’s one of the most common fears. Sharks, heights and public speaking. I think it’s valid because people are afraid of stuffing up and looking like an idiot. But the thing I teach people is the 5Ps – Prior Preparation Prevents Piss-poor Performance. If you’ve prepared you won’t stuff up. You’ll shine!

What makes a good presenter?

Confidence and authenticity. I know the word “authentic” gets thrown around a lot but it’s so true. If you’re being fake people can see it a mile off. So be you, just the best version of you. Confidence comes with practice and backing yourself. If you don’t back yourself who will?

Who needs media training or presenting training?

Anyone who has a story and wants to tell it well.

I’ve trained hundreds of people from all walks of life: A model who was a brand spokesperson and wanted to nail the key messages, a food blogger who was asked to do a TV segment, a chef who was asked to audition for a reality show, a home loan expert who wanted to be better on social media, a body image advocate who wanted to pitch for start-up seed funding, a doctor who was starting a YouTube health channel, a PR who needed to polish her client pitches, an interior designer who was creating an online style program, a cardiac surgeon who wanted to be better at giving speeches. Seriously all walks of life.

Not everyone wants to be a TV star (but if that’s your dream I say go for it!) however everyone can polish the way they promote themselves or their business. 

Who nails it when it comes to on camera presenting?

I love people who are passionate about what they do. I love watching Shaynna Blaze tell me about interior design, I love how Ross Greenwood lights up when he talks about money, I love that Jessica Rowe snorts when she laughs and completely owns that she’s a crap cook. I love digital content creators like EmmyLou MacCarthy who has infectious energy yet is warts and all about motherhood and Tanya Hennessy’s YouTube videos make me laugh until a little bit of wee comes out.

How can someone get started if they want to overcome their fear of public speaking/being interviewed?

Here are my three top tips.

First of all, it’s about controlling your nerves. By slowing down your breathing you’ll regain control of your body and you’ll also slow down your racing mind. You’ll have a better chance of getting your words out without stumbling.

Secondly, spend some time working out exactly what you want to say. Often people are so close to their business or area of expertise they find it hard to explain it concisely. 

And finally, I can’t stress enough how important it is to prepare and practice. Even with 25 years’ experience, if I’m booked to MC an event or give a speech I still rehearse it THREE times in front of a mirror at home. That way I can be relaxed and confident when it counts.

(Ahem! Please say this next sentence with a game show host enthusiasm…)

Of course, you can do my online course! Just click here. And because I’m super generous and love The Right Fit use the coupon code TheRightFit at the checkout and you’ll get a 10% discount. Taaa dahh!

https://shellshockedmedia.com/media-presentation-training-with-shelly-horton/