Whenever I speak to an audience I am always mindful to focus on the specific objectives for the audience. Why?
I am glad you asked, I will explain. The fact of the matter is, speakers move audiences forward through the inspiration that ultimately leads to motivation of the attendees at the speaking event.
As a professional speaker I can honestly say that if you fail to provide a pre-program questionnaire, likelihood is you will not know the objectives for your audience. For example, a speaker should know what the conference and or meeting theme is.
Speakers should also know what the specific purpose of the meeting, is it an annual event, awards banquet, training session and or workshop. Most importantly a speaker should know what the specific objectives for the event. The best way to find out this important information is to develop a pre-program questionnaire.
Speakers move audiences forward by focusing in on what the meeting planner hired them for. Perhaps it is to improve customer service, enhance leadership skills, improve sales performance and or to inspire an organization to improve their bottom line.
Other factors to consider when hired to speak consist of knowing what the purpose and mission of the organization. You also must know how to filter shared concerns of the audience and finding out what they are.
One of my favorite things to do leading up to a speech is discover what are the greatest challenges an organization is currently facing. Another thing to consider is, what are the most significant events that have occurred in the industry, organization or group during the past year.
As you can see, there are quite a few things to consider when preparing for a speech to an organization. The minute you are given consideration to deliver a speech, start asking questions and the sooner the better. Why?
You will be perceived as a professional because some speakers focus exclusively on just their speech, however in order to transition from a good speaker to a great speaker, you must become a good listener. Meeting planners and event planners will remember you for your ability to pay attention to details, it makes their jobs easier and you will want to be known as a speaker who is easy to get along with.
You will move people forward with your unique and one-of-its-kind speeches by being a good listener, doing in-depth research on the organization and audience you will be speaking to and delivering a masterful speech customized for your audience.
The bottom line is this, ask the right question early in the process and you will help the organization maximize its human potential and you will be rewarded for a job well done. Here is to your success!
By : Paul Vann