Have you ever wanted to become better at giving a speech, webinar or keynote while quelling your nerves? Then this review of new book ‘Public Speaking: From Stage Fright to Spotlight’ will interest you. Anne McKeown is an accomplished life coach and yes, public speaker.
We first need motivation to change, so Anne provides us with this by outlining how liberating an ability to speak publicly can be. Personal growth from stepping out of your comfort zone and the power to put forward ideas (professionally) are the just rewards. It can be very gratifying when you get it right and receive positive feedback.
In the second chapter of Public Speaking, Anne McKeown dives into the underlying causes of public speaking anxiety, both physical and psychological. She explains that the body’s natural ‘fight or flight’ response kicks in during public speaking, often leading to symptoms like sweating and a racing heart. However, the fear goes deeper, often rooted in a desire for approval and fear of judgment.
Anne emphasises the importance of recognising and confronting these fears. She introduces practical methods, such as reframing negative thoughts, employing relaxation techniques, and using neuroplasticity to retrain the brain. She even offers a seven-step pre-talk ritual to help calm both the mind and body before stepping on stage, making it easier to deliver a successful speech.
Anne comes up with a nifty acronym method to remind oneself to reframe our thoughts to the positive. She gives many physical relaxation and breathing techniques, which I enjoyed as I often get a tight tummy before speaking on stage. She also gives you a pre-talk ritual with no less than 7 elements to help body and mind prepare.
On this anxiety, I learnt the most from this line: “Remember, your audience is not there to judge you but to learn from you and be inspired by your thoughts.” She goes on to say that your openness and authenticity provides the right environment for your voice to shine and to diminish your fear. (Or in my case, terror).
Chapter 3 is all about bringing out your authentic self, connecting human to human, and so finding your ‘voice’ or speaking style. This includes the passion for your purpose and playing to your strengths. As a person who holds onto their script for dear life, I read about how to let go of this need with interest. Outlines are how I write books, so it makes sense to use a similar approach for a public speech.
Of course, practice and mnemonic techniques are also an important preparation tool. You’ll learn what delivery style you have with the book’s fun quiz.
What’s your Core Message?
In Chapter 4, the author goes over the content of the speech, including capturing the audience with a great introduction. The ‘core message’ seems to hold the key to engagement and them remembering anything – and it is equally important for you to remember as you speak. There are techniques for organising content – even storyboarding (a visual organising tool) – and how to overcome writer’s block.
Ideas are one thing, but how do we make memorable points? With “the power of three”, says the author.
The hero’s journey carries mysticism and we’re reminded that it’s a practical framework a speaker can use. Not having any conflict/challenge in a presentation, including a clear resolution to it, meant that this advice was valuable to me.
Storytelling is another important topic and readers learn to outline their story in Chapter 5. I learnt more about structuring a story and how to turn a plain old PowerPoint into a narrative arc. Understand how story masters identify with the audience with the example of Oprah’s storytelling style, i.e., using imagery and description and resonant themes. Anne also tells us how we can make an impactful ending that really carries the message home. There are tips on how to identify better with the audience through acknowledging problems, taking a problem-solving approach and explaining a vision for a better future for them.
Strut Your Stuff on Stage
Most of us know enough about body language to be dangerous 😉 but we don’t yet know how to pause emphatically or to master walking the stage. Effective use of audience eye contact is covered in depth, which is great because I never know where to look when I speak in person, as is ‘the power of the pause’.
Most also don’t like our own speaking voice, well, I don’t, so a whole chapter on Vocal Techniques for Maximum Impact is a must-read.
There is so much in this book that any level of speaker will learn something. The only critique is to add more examples on how to review your body language and how to understand your audience. Thank you Anne, for being a genuine teacher of this somewhat misunderstood skill.
About Anne McKeown:
Anne McKeown is a well-regarded life and mindset coach, particularly known for supporting women to achieve success and a positive mindset. With over 25 years of experience in corporate, higher education, and charity sectors, she ensures her clients gain leadership skills and personal growth. She has run a women’s personal development group in Northern Sydney, an activity which she finds very rewarding.
Anne’s approach often integrates Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques and her “Reignite Your Spark Program” is noted for helping women boost their confidence and communication skills. Anne enjoys helping women to step up, to find a voice, and her work is deeply rooted in her own experiences of overcoming challenges and finding success.
Buy the Paperback or eBook at: AMAZON
Bio Sources:
– Anne McKeown’s official website.
– Yahoo Style: https://sg.style.yahoo.com/mindset-coach-anne-mckeown-empowering-102433903.html
