TLP160: How to Astound an Audience!

Lynda Jackson is a world renowned speaking coach, and has had a hand in transforming the speaking ability of Prime Ministers, Actors and Executives. Lynda says leaders need to communicate more effectively, and shares examples of clients overcoming their fear of public speaking, and the importance of connecting with the audience. She also discusses how her clients get over anxiety, what makes a talk memorable, and why preparation is critical.     ~~~~~ ~~~~~  The Leadership Podcast is proud to announce a new initiative with thoughtLEADERS to provide very short podcasts called “chalk talks.” They’re “bitesize” hacks on common (but challenging) leadership issues.    You can only access the Chalk Talks by subscribing to our mailing list at .    In addition, listen in to learn how 10 of you can apply to be selected to participate in the March 2020 Self-Reliant Leadership Crucible and Podcast Guest Reunion in Austin, Texas! It’s an exclusive event only for past Crucible participants and Podcast Guests, so this is a very unique opportunity.   If you want to be one of the ten lucky listeners who will get to attend this event… click on the link below to send in your submission.  We will make our selection on Veterans Day (11/11/19) so get your submission in by November 8th, 2019.     The only other way to participate is through corporate sponsorship. If that’s of interest, please send a note to [email protected].  ~~~~~ ~~~~~   Key Takeaways  [4:07] Communication is one of the most important aspects of being a great leader. In order to lead, one must be able to connect with their followers, and properly convey their message.  [6:56] Three examples that Lynda gives for great speakers to study: Mary Robinson, Steve Jobs, and Nelson Mandela.  [8:10] Even more than worrying about if we are authentic in public speaking, we should focus more on the goal of the talk and how the audience can connect with us and get our message.  [12:02] Great speakers make it about the audience more than they make it about themselves. They are focused on the audience and how they can transfer the information inside their head to benefit, help, teach or inspire those listening.  [13:31] Public speaking can be a large room, or it can also be just a sales call or pitch meeting. It is a different way of speaking than a conversation, and Lynda works with her clients to make sure they are able to connect with the client.  [19:23] Our speech patterns now reflect our ultra sensitive environment and desire to seek approval from others. One example is up talk, where statements have a rising intonation at the end as though you are asking a question.  [19:23] Approval is different than respect. Great leaders know their self worth and are secure in their own value, and it translates into how they communicate.  [22:58] Every word matters. Be succinct.  [25:02] It’s fine to share your story, but make it for the benefit of your audience.  [29:36] Preparation is key. Before each talk Lynda encourages her clients to prepare an outline and list three major points to talk about, as well as the goal they want out of the event or meeting.   [36:43] Storytelling can be powerful, but it is just one piece of the puzzle.  [40:41] Public speakers have the opportunity to inspire the audience, or to strike a chord of emotion.  [41:52] Everybody has a story to tell, and it’s important to share that story for the sake of the audience rather than for yourself.  [42:02] You don’t have to be a stand up comedian, or joke writer to make people laugh and feel humor during your public speaking.    Quotable Quotes  “Every performance should have a goal.”  “If a leader does not communicate well, how do they lead?  “When you are a great public speaker you can not afford to be beholden to the approval of your audience.”  “The less word spoken the more words remembered.”  “We earn respect from the audience.”  “If we all did the things we are capable of, we would astound ourselves.” - Thomas Edison      | | | |