Pointing at your audience can do more harm than good. Folks get messages from your body language. Most of us know that ,yet we may continue to use language that can get in the way of our content. Sure, if someone really wants to get all of the marrow of information out of our bones they may submit to any body language you throw at them. But we should be concerned about HOW we say what we say.
If, for example, I am teaching folks how to blog for the first time, pointing my finger at them and telling them they will not make it unless they work at it for a while may be the truth. But it may also be what can shut them down. Their brain cells may actually get sluggish and not take in the content I am delivering.
What Some Folks Think You Are Saying When You Point Your Finger At Them
Body language expert, Patti A Wood feels that it when you point at your audience it is like shooting at them. Yet it is used often for different reasons. Read her excellent article.
There are also culturally different interpretations of finger pointing. In China for example, it may be considered offensive.
Personally, If I point a finger at someone in my audience I am careful to do it with affirmation. In other words, I may say “You will not fail” or “You have the potential for greatness”. But overall, it is a tricky gesture to use and should be avoided unless you are totally aware of what you are saying and the expected response you want to have.Overall, I like to use open-handed gestures to stay on the safe side when speaking live to an audience. Hence, I try to know my audience ahead of time.
Why Should You Care As Internet Marketers?
Many internet marketers may not maintain lasting relationships with clients when they point their fingers at them during presentations. Some folks just don’t like it. It is my opinion that it can harm the presence and connection you want with your audience.
What do you think?
Put energy in your voice when conducting online training. I am currently watching a online training video on Outlook 2007. I am tired but pushing myself because it is critical that I take my outlook to a higher level. Of course I rather finish watching a martial arts video with Jackie Chan and Jet Li.
But I was surprised and perked up when I heard Brian Culp start the introduction to the tutorial. His voice had great inflection and energy. I am now looking forward to learning. What a difference a voice can make. If you are interested in hearing his voice you can visit Baby Boomer Software Training and just listen to the first few tutorials for free. You will see what I mean.
Meanwhile, I am going to enjoy learning Outlook!
Projecting confidence in your voice goes a long way to convincing your listeners that you know what you are talking about. This insightful message shared by a Kathie Thomas says volumes.
What do you think?
Online Marketers: when you are talking on the phone, teleseminar, or in person please spell out the name of your website and email address. Unless you have a PowerPoint or Chart for the audience to view they will only spell the name of your site or email the way they assume it is spelled.
You do not want to miss an opportunity because of the frustration of a potential client who gives up because the email or web site is wrong.
I just read this really good article by Carl Fink on inserting video in your PowerPoint Presentation. I enjoyed not only the technical information but his focus on the need for presenters to get rid of anything that will break your connection with the audience.
Read tips on inserting video into your PowerPoint
I want to share an excellent article on presentation planning. This article was found on a very popular site called, Time To Market in the UK. So read and put into action some of this empowering and cutting edge material.
So many times I watch presenters point to their PowerPoint slides while facing the screen with their BACK TO THE AUDIENCE. Please STOP. When you lose the connection with your audience.
Now, this may sound like a little thing but if you add reading the slides to the audience you could be facing those slides for a while. So, try pointing to the slide then turn to face the audience and discuss the point you want to make on your PowerPoint.
It takes some practice but you will see the difference.
I am of the opinion that all internet marketers should publish a hard copy and digital copy of something with their name on it. Hard copies as well as cd’s and videos can all be shared with your audience when you are talking live to people from the platform or in the classroom.
I just heard a super workshop on self-publishing again. I really encourage you to visit www.parapublishing.org for super resources. Some publishing houses will do everything for you except marketing.
Many people will read Dan Poynters book, Self Publishing Manual or The Complete Guide to Self Publishing , by Tom and Marlyn Ross. Both are excellent. DO NOT GO TO THE LIBRARY FOR THEM-YOU NEED YOUR OWN COPIES FOR REFERENCE.Also, consider www.instantpublisher.com for print on demand. Many people are using it. If you have other resources please make a comment.
Some printers will even make the postcards for you and give place the bar codes on the books. Take your time to submit the info and gather your prices. Take advantage of the competition out there. Some printers will send you free self publishing kits.
I suggest developing a worksheet that you can record all of your comments for each printer you submit a request for price to. Also, ask each printer to send you a sample of thier work.
You may get a lot of free books(smile).
I would also suggest you get a copy of Writers Marketplace if you want to submit your material for publication by someone else. There is also a Photographer Marketplace for submitting photos!
I will be sharing more. And I look forward to your resources.
Rosie
Personal coaching can help marketers who need help delivering their material to an audience. Although content is king how you deliver that content can be just the limo you need to transport your message to a sales conversion.
A personal coach can listen to your tonal quality and assess your level of presentation energy. Think about it.
