The only reason to give a speech is to change the world. That’s a high bar. But that’s what we should aspire to when audiences give us this privilege.
That caught my eye immediately as I read through Tim Ferris’ interview with Dan Pink, a former speechwriter for Al Gore. There’s some other gems in there as well; worth your time if you present to people. There’s breakdancing, too, which I suppose is a great way to get attention if you can do it and not look dorky.
Side note: I like Dan Pink because of his book, which makes the case that right-brainers like myself will rule the earth someday. It’s true!
I gave a presentation the other day on the Portland CityFest to a group of about 30 ministers from the area. While in general, I think I did well and I think it kept their attention, I broke several cardinal rules. I let on that I was nervous; I apologized for going on too long; worse – I went on too long! What was I thinking! My wife, with whom I had gone over my points and cut several chunks out, was inwardly grimacing as I brought back points that I just… had… to include. I also poorly managed follow-up, letting one individual monopolize my time and preventing me from answering other questions.
I really think I just need more practice. There’s no substitute for getting up in front of an audience and getting them to care about something. I notice that when I watch a video edit I’m working on, I notice things I wouldn’t have when other people are present. Practicing in front of even a mirror would also help me remove stuff that isn’t necessary.
Another gem:
Anne Lamott wrote Bird by Bird, one of my favorite writing guides. In the book, she describes how an editor of hers cut out a sizable portion of some chapter she had written. Outraged, she asked him why. He said: “Just because it happened to you doesn’t mean it’s interesting.” Great advice for speakers.
