Thru Thick and Thin: Advice for Media Professionals - Kathy Aaronson - MediaBizBloggers

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Welcome Kathy Aaronson our newest MediaBizBlogger.

Hi Kathy,

I delivered the worst speech – a real clunker - before all my peers, senior level management and a few consultants. I knew it didn't go well. In fact I am mortified by the whole experience. Immediately after the address the President of our company called me into his office and said, "My first reaction is to fire you. You managed to insult every person in the room. What were you thinking? Before I act on my initial reaction, I want you to think about what happened and tell me what you plan to do about it. Now go home and I will see you first thing in the morning." Can you suggest a plan that will actually work?

Clunker in Boston

Hi Clunker,

Public speaking is a learned skill. I suspect you have not had formal training. Your biggest problem is that you didn't understand what the audience needed from you. You need a game plan that will tell the President that this will never happen again, and will let everyone who attended know you are doing something about what happened. Nothing will get you out of this pickle faster than an authority on the subject of public speaking.

We have selected Dr. Gary Genard, President of Public Speaking International. Dr. Genard is an internationally known expert in communication performance. A professional speaker, coach, author, and trainer, he helps clients worldwide excel as public speakers. He says:

"I have three suggestions to quickly remedy your public speaking problem.

First, you need to understand the wants, needs, expectations, and preferences of your audience before you approach the podium. Doing this will allow you to create a purpose for your speech that will reach your audience and move them in a way that is a positive experience for all.

Secondly, you need to understand exactly who is in your audience, i.e. your boss, board members of your company, client prospects, etc. Once you know who is in your audience, you can tailor the purpose of your speech and your presentation to key audience members.

Lastly, you need to select a career coach and negotiate fees, including expected results in time for your morning meeting. Let's hope your company is confident in both you and your coach enough to be willing to pay the fee."

Update: Clunker followed Dr. Gary Genard's advice and saved his job.

Kathy,

I am a success driven digital advertising executive. I would like to volunteer my skills and make a real difference. Any suggestions of where I might start?

Maryann NYC

Hi Maryann,

Very early in my career I volunteered at the UN. This experience gave me a global perspective and set me on my current career path. Let me encourage you to contact Alia Varsana, Partnership Advisor for the United Nations. One of her missions is to educate UN members and staff about the important role digital media can play in bringing attention to the crucial missions of the United Nations. Keep in mind her office needs volunteers that are long term and sustainable. Alia can be reached through unop.org

Thru Thick and Thin is written by Kathy Aaronson, CEO, Sales Athlete Executive Search with assistance from Lindsey Long, National Director of Client Services, Sales Athlete Executive Search. Write Thru Thick and Thin at Kathy@salesathlete.com or Lindsey@salesathlete.com. Special thanks to Lindsey Long for her contribution.

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