In this expert session, Michael Diederich, an accomplished workshop trainer and international public speaker with a background in entertainment and teaching, engages the audience in an interactive presentation on public speaking. Michael shares his belief that improvisation techniques can significantly benefit businesses by enhancing brainstorming, interaction, and communication skills.
Michael discusses the importance of understanding various cultures' speaking styles and finding a balance between authenticity and enthusiasm. The expert session focuses on breaking down public speaking concerns into manageable categories – what you hear, see, and feel. To maintain audience engagement, Michael shares examples, asks questions using the Mentimeter app, and offers tips for handling challenges like maintaining focus, proper breathing techniques, and handling nervousness during long presentations.
Michael also emphasizes the significance of one's appearance and environment in effectively communicating with audiences. He believes that maintaining a neutral background with good lighting can help keep the audience's attention and create a more professional appearance. Michael shares his experience dealing with less-than-ideal backgrounds and encourages participants to adapt to their circumstances, focusing on controlling what they can.
Throughout the session, Michael offers practical advice for creating an engaging online presentation or sales pitch. He suggests standing up while presenting online to generate more energy and focus, as well as utilizing proper breath control for effective communication. In terms of visuals, he emphasizes the importance of ensuring that one's face and expression are clearly visible to maintain eye contact and build trust with the audience.
Michael also explores the impact of body language on perception during virtual meetings, encouraging participants to sit up straight and adopt confident postures for enhanced engagement and focus. He emphasizes understanding power dynamics and suggests adopting a kingly or superhero stance to build confidence and authority while presenting. Michael advises participants to be aware of their body language and make deliberate efforts to convey enthusiasm and energy through their posture and tone.
Michael stresses the importance of practicing presentations and recording oneself for self-evaluation. He encourages participants to focus on their message rather than getting distracted by perceived negative feedback from the audience. The expert session concludes with Michael sharing his experiences on introducing oneself in different settings and the importance of being authentic while presenting.
Michael advises experimenting with different poses and facial expressions during practice sessions to find one's neutral stance and encourages recording presentations for later analysis instead of using mirrors during the actual presentation.
