Presenting with a strong start at C-suite level’ virtual workshop to EWOB members
/One of the EU Commission’s objective is to have 40% of board members of each gender by 2026. EWOB (European Women on Board) was set up to support this directive, an umbrella association for gender equality at decision making level. EWOB is a Brussels based organisation whose aim is to increase gender diversity in C-Suite and board roles throughout Europe.
I was honoured to deliver a virtual 90-minute workshop, on ‘Presenting with a strong start at C-suite level’ to EWOB members on 5 October 2022.
What makes an effective speaker? Good question.
As a communication coach, I believe that individuals who present with ACAP: Authority, Credibility, Authenticity and Passion are effective and engaging.
So I began the workshop by explaining the four acquisition stages of acquiring great presentation skills and then shared 3 tools on how to connect with your audience right from the moment you open your mouth:
· 7 techniques for a strong start to immediately hook your audience
· Why, how and when to pause to add variety to your voice
· How to simplify, support and strengthen your language to get your message across clearly and concisely
We completed 4 activities during this public speaking workshop, working individually and in pairs, building up the presentation skills step be step with new theory and fresh exercises.
What makes a good public speaker is complicated: engaging slides, voice, body language in speaking and the actual words you use are all key to connect with your audience and achieve your presentation goals. So this was a starter kit to equip members of EWOB with real takeaways and a Strong Start!
Takeaways
Use pauses, they are strong
Explain the why to the audience
Simplify your language and use strong adjectives
Select a strong start technique and have the why in mind
Be sensitive to potential cultural sensitivities
If you would like to discuss your organisation’s (corporate, NGOs, Associations and Universities) Public speaking or Presentation skills needs, I offer free 30-minute consultations through my site. I’d love to meet you.