Speaking as a Leader

Speaking as a Leader The next time you have the opportunity to speak, would you win an award for it? Speaking as a leader is critical if you wish to position yourself above the competition to advance in your career. Theaward or the prize, is the opportunity that could result from a great performance. A senior executive in career transition may not be speaking in front of thousands of people but like the Stars at the Oscars,relaying a great performance is just as important. Any opportunity to speak, if only an introduction to one individual must be a compelling and seductivepresentation to ensure you impress upon the listener your ability as an articulate, confident andprofessional executive. The flip side is anegative impression or no impression at all which eliminates any potentialopportunities that could have resulted from the interaction. Be prepared! Be relevant! Be enthusiastic! An introduction or an elevator speech must clearly articulate who you are, what you are looking for and what you have to offer.Consider your audience to ensure your message is of value to them to create a positive and lasting impression.Ina job interview, achance meeting or a presentationit may not bein your nature to jump up and down but even a smile can behighly influential. A lack of reaction or passion is usually associated witha lack of interest. Practice your performance! Few computers are without a web-cam and most cameras now have the capability toshoot a video so embrace these tools torehearse your presentation. Will you winan award? Inspired by a great blog post fromScott Eblins Next Level Blog, Six Leadership Dos and Donts From Oscar Night with somegreat tips on speaking and the speeches thatstood out from the rest.