When it comes to presentations, how skilled are you at giving them? How activated and consistent is your Charismatic Presence, the magnetic life-force that draws people into you? No matter where you are in your journey as a speaker or communicator, you’re never truly “done.” There’s always room for improvement, and peak performers know that mastery is a lifelong pursuit. They understand the importance of stepping into discomfort again and again to grow beyond their current skill set.
Think Like An Actor And Move Towards Mastery
Adopting an actor’s mindset can be invaluable for your journey toward mastering presence and presentation skills. It pays to engage in regular activities that keep you centered, energized, and progressing as a speaker. In my upcoming book, Charismatic Presence: 5 Principles for Magnetic Presentations, releasing in January 2025, I outline twelve practices designed to enhance your presence and presentation skills over time. Here are five key practices from the list to consider adopting:
Five Ways to Level Up Your Presence and Presentation Skills
1. Ask yourself The Four Questions™.
After every presentation or spotlight moment, ask yourself these four questions:
- Did I solve my intention?
- What went better than expected?
- What didn’t go as well as I’d hoped?
- What could I do differently the next time?
Take the time to honor the answer to the last question and adjust your approach for future presentations.
2. Care for Your Voice, Body, and Head.
These are your essential tools as a speaker. Incorporate regular exercises that warm up and strengthen these tools. Whether it’s yoga, strength training, or walking, do whatever you can to get moving. Exercises like tongue twisters, humming your favorite tunes, or taking voice lessons are healthy habits for nurturing your vocal health. Don’t neglect your mental health either—consider therapy for managing anxiety, practice mindfulness, or keep a journal to process your thoughts.
3. Level Up by Trying Something Scary.
Growth often lies outside of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself by trying something a little intimidating. This could mean presenting while standing instead of sitting, addressing a larger audience, or volunteering to be the first or last in a lineup of speakers (if you’d usually prefer to do neither).
4. Record and Watch Your Presentations.
Watching your presentations—both live and during practice—can be an eye-opening experience. Although it might feel uncomfortable, this is the best way to identify habits or tics that may hinder your effectiveness as a speaker. You’ll see what works well, allowing you to work on your flow.
5. Work with a Coach.
Collaborate with a coach who can provide you with tailored feedback and strategies for creating and rehearsing your presentations. A good coach can help you minimize any habits and behaviors that may be preventing you from performing at your peak.
The more you engage in practices that foster presence and presentation mastery, the more confident and engaging you will become. Over time, your Charismatic Presence will grow and strengthen, empowering you as a communicator and speaker to connect more deeply with your audience.
Need support in becoming a more masterful speaker and radiating a maximized Charismatic Presence? Let’s have a conversation!
Eleni Kelakos, CSP The Speaker Whisperer®