Navigating the World of Corporate Speaking: Dos and Don'ts

by Jaimie Abbott

Corporate speaking can be a rewarding and lucrative career. However, navigating the world of corporate speaking can be challenging, particularly for those who are new to the industry.

In this blog, we will explore some dos and don'ts to help you navigate the world of corporate speaking.

Dos:

1. Research your audience

One of the most important dos of corporate speaking is to research your audience. Your presentation should be tailored to the specific audience you will be speaking to. You should understand their interests, backgrounds, and goals, and use this information to create a presentation that is relevant and engaging.

2. Practice, practice, practice

Practice is essential when it comes to corporate speaking. You should rehearse your presentation multiple times, making sure that you are comfortable with your material and your delivery. You should also practice responding to questions and feedback from your audience.

3. Be prepared

Preparation is key to a successful corporate speaking engagement. You should arrive at the event early, familiarize yourself with the venue, and test any audiovisual equipment that you will be using. You should also have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties.

4. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience is crucial when it comes to corporate speaking. You should use humor, anecdotes, and interactive activities to keep your audience engaged and interested. You should also encourage questions and feedback from your audience to ensure that they are actively participating in the presentation.

5. Follow up with your audience

Following up with your audience after the presentation is a great way to maintain a relationship with them. You can send a thank-you email or follow-up message, providing additional resources or answering any questions that were not addressed during the presentation.

Don'ts:

1. Use jargon

Using jargon or technical language can be confusing for your audience, particularly if they are not familiar with the industry or topic. You should use language that is clear and easy to understand, and avoid using unnecessary jargon or acronyms.

2. Oversell yourself

Overselling yourself or your services can be a turnoff for your audience. You should focus on providing value and information that is relevant to your audience, rather than trying to sell your services or products.

3. Go over time

Going over time can be frustrating for your audience and can disrupt the schedule of the event. You should stick to the allotted time for your presentation and be mindful of the time constraints.

4. Be unprepared

Being unprepared for a corporate speaking engagement can be disastrous. You should ensure that you have all the necessary materials, equipment, and information before the presentation. You should also have a backup plan in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

5. Disrespect your audience

Disrespecting your audience can ruin your reputation and damage your career as a corporate speaker. You should always be respectful and professional, even if you disagree with your audience or receive negative feedback.

In conclusion, navigating the world of corporate speaking can be challenging, particularly for those who are new to the industry. By following the dos and don'ts outlined above, you can establish yourself as a professional corporate speaker and build a successful career in the industry. Remember to research your audience, practice, prepare, engage your audience, and follow up after the presentation. Avoid using jargon, overselling yourself, going over time, being unprepared, and disrespecting your audience. With dedication and hard work, you can become a successful corporate speaker and make a positive impact on your audience.