Most writers are introverts, spending our days talking to people in our heads. Even when promote our work on Facebook and Twitter, we can hide behind the screen. But the time will come when someone asks you to get up and, that’s right, talk to REAL People. Here’s my advice: Just say YES!
There is nothing more fun than talking about something you love to do – to people who are interested, Where else will you meet people who truly like to read or who want to write. These are your people!
Start with baby steps. My first speaking gig was at my daughter’s kindergarten class, where I taught the basic three act structure. Jack and Jill went up the hill, Jack fell down and broke his crown, they both came tumbling after. Sounds simple until one kid - probably like you at that age - wonders what the heck happened on that hill to make Jack break his crown. No worries. You can save the advanced story structure lecture for first graders.
I began teaching at the UCLA Writers Program soon after my first novel was published 15 years ago. The classes are filled with all kinds of professionals, so I spent weeks organizing my notes and creating class outlines, timing the contents and planning exercises to keep them engaged. The first quarter, I spoke too fast out of nervousness. The second quarter, an older gentleman fell asleep during every class. But eventually, through practice, I got the hang of it. It felt like having my own stand-up comedy act, where I had a captive audience and everyone laughed at my jokes. I still use much of same material, always updating for new examples and customizing lectures for different audiences. The best part is that by teaching about writing, I always have new thoughts about my own. Later, I began speaking at conferences and seminars. Not only is this a great way to get away from your desk, but it’s an ideal way to present your latest book after the launch is over. Last week, at a charity event, I spoke to 300 people about What A Mother Knows. This was by far my biggest audience so, naturally, I was nervous. My goal was to sell books, to donate funds to the charity, to make the sponsor glad she invited me, and also, I wanted to have fun.
Before me was a comedian who made a joke about the bazaar on the side of the ballroom – accidentally insulting the audience. Then a young author with a bestseller talked about himself the whole time and forgot to describe his book. Finally, it was my turn. Sure enough, my mouth went dry as I was called up to the podium. But as soon as I put my notes down and looked at all the faces of people who were truly interested in what I had to say, the rest came easily. And the line of people waiting for me to sign their books reflected that. It was my best day yet. The key? It sounds old fashioned, but it works: Be prepared.1. Do your homework. Even for a short talk, it helps to make notes about what you might want to say. Then write a rough draft. I usually break it down to an outline, then put it in bullet points. Then copy these onto a notecard. Now you’ve reviewed the material a few times so all you have to do is….
2. Practice! Things sound different out loud than they do in your head. Stand up and pretend the audience is there. Time it. And do it again. This is the boring part, but it’s the part that makes ALL the difference between panic and poise.
3. Plan your outfit ahead and decide on every accessory. Make sure it’s all cleaned and ironed so you don’t rush on that day.
4. Pack your notes the night before. Add Kleenex, dental floss, blotting powder, lipstick, and business cards.
5. Arrive early – check out the room, use the bathroom, and thank the folks who invited you.
6. Collect yourself. Breath deeply. Review your notes before you are called.
7. Adapt – Be familiar with your audience. Think of a comment you can open with that points out your similarities. Listen to the speaker before you, to see what the audience responds to and how you can improve on that.
8. Avoid temptation. Do not drink alcohol, or too much coffee, or water. Turn off your phone.
9. Smile …. and have fun.
10. Write a thank-you note.
You may never be relaxed before a speaking engagement, but following these tips will help you be successful. Then, you can run back to your desk and talk to those wonderful people inside your head.
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