308: Peter Hopwood - Creating The Connection When Speaking

Can creating a connection happen on a whim? It may not work out that way at all. Preparation is still key. In this episode, Denis and Peter tackle the importance of storytelling and establishing a connection by using the right words, tones, and approach to effectively convey our message.Peter Hopwood is a British Global Speaker Coach, Virtual Speaking Specialist & TEDx Coach, Storytelling for Sales Trainer, Worldwide Corporate Events MC & Speaker - lived in 7 countries, worked in 42, currently based in Split, Croatia - working worldwide on Zoom! Tune in as Denis and Peter discuss the impact of storytelling as leaders navigate their way to success and better positioning.In this episode:Peter discusses how he got into leadership and communication, his work as a speaker coach, and how leaders can connect with their audiences.Being animated and having gestures helps to show that you are more confident and in control.The way we speak and how we look will influence the way that people think about us.Peter emphasizes the importance of spontaneity in audio productions, which can be difficult to achieve with recorded messages.Curiosity is a key ingredient for a successful relationship with someone. When we are curious about someone, we are more likely to connect with them and feel comfortable around them.Leaders should use storytelling to engage their audiences and communicate their messages more effectively.Stories are an important way to connect with others, build credibility, and strengthen the connection between people.Good connectors are aware of their surroundings and manage to connect with others through body language, facial expressions, and other signals.Key Takeaways:Take advantage of gestures when speaking to provide emphasisHow you present yourself matters in people’s mindsRemain spontaneous even when doing recordingsStay curious and authentic when communicating with othersLeaders should utilize the power of storytelling for effective communicationTweetable Quotes:“It [effective speaking] is about the signals that you share, making sure that things are moving, there's something changing, there's something that's going to stimulate the brain… Anything predictable is not good.” - Peter Hopwood“When we know our intention, it's so much easier to share it.” - Peter Hopwood“It [creating connection] is something that we do constantly every day. So, why not say to ourselves, ‘I'm going to get really good at this. I can practice this every day.’ “ - Peter HopwoodConnect with Peter on Instagram and LinkedIn, follow him on Twitter, and check out his website.Email: [email protected]: http://www.leadingchangepartners.com/ Leadership Is Changing Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/LeadershipIsChanging/Leadership is Changing LinkedIn Page: