As speakers we often struggle to find the right topic to speak about. Some of us look to our passion and identify things that we really get excited about or things that really make us angry. Others go to their experiences – maybe the challenges or really good experiences from the past. Still others focus on their background and what has become their expertise. Each of these are great foundations for finding the message to focus on as a speaker. But the true test of whether your topic is your most appropriate one is to examine its authenticity in relationship to you.
So ask yourself these three basic questions about your topic as a speaker.
- Is it the message of your life?
Each person’s life tells a story. Your message should reflect the story of your life whether it comes from your passion, experience or expertise. When your message reflects your life it grows with you as you grow in speaking. You gain more experiences and you can continue to discuss your experiences in sync with your message because it is the message of your life. Do you know your life’s message? Looking at the thread that ties your life together gives you a chance to see its story. Finding your message is like uncovering buried treasure. It takes time and is well worth it because this is the foundation of a great speaker.
- How does your message reflect your past?
If your message represents the thread of your life then if reflects your past. You have stories that support your message and your experiences. You have humor and sadness. When you add both to a presentation you engage your audience in ways that go beyond just facts. And when your message reflects your thread and your past you have a message that is authentic.
- How will your message grow with your future?
The perspective that I share with you is grounded in the thread of your life. Once you uncover the thread and see how it unfolds you gain confidence in your future. If you capture your thread and build on it then everything you do in your future will also spring from this thread. So it will grow with your future because it is the root of your past.
Once you understand that speaking authentically means speaking form your core, you will find it easy to uncover any message you are trying to share. It starts with knowing your personal core and the message of your life. Speaking authentically means speaking from your passion, experience and/or expertise. And it means growing with your message as you grow with your speaking ability.
Take time to be clear on your thread and your message and you will shave years off your learning curve as a successful professional speaker.
Norma T. Hollis, America’s Leading Authentic Voice Doctor® helps speakers find, live and share their authentic voice. A former owner of a speakers bureau, online directory of speakers, as well as a speaker, facilitator, author and coach to speakers, Norma helps speakers step into their authenticity. She is building a network of speakers and coaches known as Authenticity Ambassadors who she certifies to deliver her Authentic Voice System. Learn more about Norma and her authenticity program at http://www.GiftsFromNorma.com
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