Smile!

A broadcast friend of mine has the word "Smile!" written on her daily calendar.  It's her reminder to smile nice and big for the camera.  Although it may sound corny (and I did joke with her when I saw it) it's actually a GREAT idea!  We all need to be reminded to smile.  Unfortunately, we let life drag us down sometimes and forget the value of a smile.  Each smile is a gift to pass on to others.  Of course, it also benefits ourselves too.  A smile reinforces the notion that things are going to be okay, even if it's a forced smile.  Other times we simply need the reminder to lighten up and not take ourselves so seriously.


Smiling in broadcasting and public speaking is essential.  First, it offers that critical first impression.  Remember, you never get another chance to make a first impression and you never know who you're about to meet.  Keep that smile from sagging, especially when it's "go time."  Second, a nice smile presents a warm, friendly environment for the audience.  It helps make them comfortable.  In turn, it also makes them much more receptive to what you have to say in your opening remarks.  After all, who wants to sit attentive and listen to what ole Frown Face has to say?  No thanks.

Finally, a genuine smile exudes confidence in public speaking.  It sends a message to your audience that you have information that is going to benefit them.  Your smile is the first indication that you're excited to be there and deliver your presentation.  Don't hold it back!

GrantJ

Building Confidence

As a TV meteorologist I must speak confidently on a daily basis.  Yes, a lot of the confidence factor stems from experience, but a significant portion also comes from simply knowing my material.

Know Your Material

The more familiar and comfortable you are with your material, the more confident you will be.  It's really that simple.  If you're speaking in front of a group of medical professionals and have never stepped foot in a doctor's office, then yes, you should be nervous!  On the other hand, if you know what you're talking trust that it will show in your presentation.  You don't have to be the only expert in the room, you just need to be knowledgeable and familiar with your topic.  Above all, you do need to have something of value to offer your audience.

One way I build confidence on a daily basis is by personally researching my weather forecast.  This takes about 30-45 minutes and involves looking at lots of weather maps and computer information.  The more information I gather, the more confident I am in my on-air delivery.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Once you have your speech ready to go, practice the heck out of it.  Not only will this work out the kinks, but you will gain confidence in the process.  For my speaking engagements I try to ensure that my speech is ready at least one week ahead of time.  Two weeks is ideal.  Much longer than that and you risk neglecting it or forgetting about it.  Two weeks is ideal because you can practice it daily without the pressure of an immediate time crunch.  This allows the process to breath.  It's a nice balance of practice and time away for fresh perspective.  Practicing 2-3 times a day for the next week will do wonders for your confidence.

GrantJ