Have you ever been asked to deliver a presentation, and despite how passionate you are about the subject, once on stage, it just ain’t sellin’?

Why don’t we come across on stage, like we do in our “real” lives. Remember the last happy hour you attended, and how everyone was hooked on a story you were telling. Remember how they laughed in all the right places, and sighed in empathy where you wanted them to? We are delighted share things we love, whether it’s the achievements of a loved one or innovations in science, or something else that you love telling others about.   

In the telling, your eyes light up, your face is aglow with excitement, and you delightedly parley new developments, setbacks, and insights. Subconsciously, you may even add a touch of salesmanship to sell your friends on the topic you’re bought into.

That’s the real you. But when you step on stage to deliver a presentation, suddenly you feel stiff, awkward, expressionless. Frustrating, isn’t it? 

So how do we deal with the Stage You?

First and foremost, be YOU. The audience may have changed, but who’s to say they aren’t just as riveted by your storytelling? If you view the audience as your friends, you are likely to be friendly, relaxed and good-natured. Research tells us that most audiences want a speaker to succeed, much like they would a friend.

Long after the speech is over, people remember what you did, how you came across, how deeply you felt.  They’ll remember the way you spoke about something, far more than anything you’ve said. Were you energetic, optimistic, engaged?

How we act on stage is sometimes counter-intuitive of what we’ve been taught. Think of yourself among friends, rather than a sea of unknowns out to get you. Share the joy in talking about something meaningful to you, and others will respond.