Being someone that speaks from a stage as well as teaches at workshops, the message +John Falchetto writes hits home for me:

The goal of presenting is not to teach the audience. Rather, the goal is one of learning, with the ultimate hope that the audience hears the message, feels like they’re part of the conversation, learns from said message and the inspiration that enters their head, and then, most of all, leaves that room and actually does something.

I've been teaching tech since 1989 (whoa). I first spoke on a stage in front over over 100 people in 1990 at 19 years old. I wasn't even old enough to have a drink at the speakers reception afterward – but it was my very first glass of wine (shhh). It's taken me a long time to realize and separate the speaking from the teaching. I always tried to "teach from the stage" as I was horrified of coming across as a fake and not knowing my materials. So, I crammed facts and lessons down the eyeballs of my audience. It's only in the past few years I've learned how to embrace the storytelling aspect of the stage and treat it as an inspirational and entertaining vehicle. I fear not being perceived as offering value and to me knowledge is value. Now I see value is also inspiration and motivation and courage.

I'm pretty certain my online 'voice' matches my 'stage' or 'training' voice, but that might just be my personality in general (and the fact I'm a bit over the top and crazy). I'm not saying I'm blessed with natural talent or anything, but just experience and practice. There are a lot of people that are much better writers, bloggers, and content producers than I am – but some of them lack basic in-person social and/or presenting skills. 

It can be learned and it can be practiced. Above all else be open to constructive criticism. The worst talk I ever did in my life was a TEDx talk. For a multitude of reasons, when I left the stage I walked right out the room (thankfully it was a scheduled break…) and numerous friends and strangers told me not to worry, public speaking isn't for everyone. Of course they had no way of knowing it's how I make part of my living. OUCH. With tears in my eyes, I stood and listened to people's comments and suggestions, had a few large glasses of merlot that night, and took everything to heart.

And I learned. And practiced like I was going to be on American Idol.

No matter how much you write or speak, there is always room for improvement.

#blog   #bweny  

Reshared post from +John Falchetto

This is why I decided today to briefly express why there is often a “let down” of sorts when a blogger or social media “icon” is seen speaking in person. via +Marcus Sheridan 

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Why Great Bloggers Often Don’t Make for Great Speakers
[caption id="attachment_4921" align="aligncenter" width="551" caption="Presenting a Social Slam– I get a little "social" with my friend Mark Schaefer&quot…

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