Throughout our Fellow Training Camp, VFA brings together world-class speakers, trainers, and experts to prepare our Fellows for everything that’s thrown at them. Renowned Brown University professor Barbara Tannenbaum dropped by to teach the Fellows all there is to know about public speaking and persuasive communication.
Wondering what they learned? Check out 2014 Fellow Molly Adair’s takeaways below…
Lessons Learned from a Morning with Barbara Tannenbaum
by Molly Adair
“Turn to someone near you and introduce yourself,” was Barbara Tannenbaum’s first ask of us on this particular Tuesday morning. We all did, with firm handshakes and laughs as we re-introduced ourselves to neighbors.
“Now raise your hand if you’re 100% sure you know the eye color of the person you just spoke with.”
A measly three people were so bold as to raise their hands. This was the first of many lessons that Barbara would teach us over the next two hours.
From technical lessons, like how to whiteout your Powerpoint screen while presenting or the proper structure of a convincing argument (assert, support, support again, restate), to more abstract concepts like being assertive versus being aggressive, Barbara’s advice was applicable, helpful, and the perfect level of humorous. Though I learned far more, I took away three valuable lessons:
“All speaking is public speaking.”
Whether it’s a formal presentation to a room full of 100+ fellows or discussing a marketing strategy with a group of four, we are all constantly communicating with those around us. As Barbara pointed out, poor speech habits don’t just appear when you’re on stage. The more “um’s” and “uhh’s” you use every day, the worse they’ll be during a formal business pitch. By practicing good habits on a daily basis you can train yourself to be a better speaker.
“Think like your audience.”
The best way to connect with your audience is to understand who they are and where they’re coming from. This does not mean changing your viewpoint to align with their values, but phrasing things in a way that that person can best relate to. Gaining the trust of your audience allows you to connect so they will be more open to hearing you.
“Take up space.”
Public speaking isn’t just about verbal communication. The way you position yourself, the direction you turn your body, and how you show physical agreement are all forms of communication. When you feel confident going into a speech or presentation your body language will reflect this attitude. But for the vast majority of people who get nervous before a speech, there’s a way to trick yourself into confidence. Barbara called this the “imposter syndrome.” Right before a presentation, she encourages you to think “I’m so excited” instead of “I’m so nervous.” Simultaneously plant your feet shoulder-width apart. Keep your chest held high and open. Spread your arms wide. Take up space. By making yourself open up and physically expand, you can increase confidence and harness your nerves to create a sense of excitement.
Not long after Barbara’s presentation, I gave my Pecha Kucha presentation to a smaller group of fellows. I started to get butterflies, so right before presenting I practiced taking up space. Right as Barbara had said I would, I felt more confident and excited going into the presentation. Sure, I messed up and started reading from the wrong notecard halfway through, but I had the confidence to correct my mistake and move on. (Thanks for that Barbara!)