Do you want to make a fantastic impression at your next speaking engagement? We all want to WOW the room, but showing up with a less-than-polished image will cost you business! You know the saying, “You can’t judge a book by its cover?” Unfortunately, that doesn’t apply when you’re on stage. It’s human nature for people to size you up the minute you step in front of the crowd, so present yourself in the best possible light right from the start. Here are some foolproof tips to master the ever-important non-verbal element of your speech, create the right image, and establish yourself as a trusted authority that people want to hire.
10 Tips for Creating the Right Image for Your Presentation
Tip #1: Dress For You
Your style should align with who you really are. Your audience will relate to you more if they get a true sense of you, and dressing in your own style is a great place to start.
Tip #2: Dress For Your Audience
Keeping Tip #1 in mind, whether you are speaking for a group of corporate executives or a room full of techies, choose your look so they will see you as a peer. Bonus: Dress just a little nicer than you think they will be dressed and you will be seen as a leader and influencer.
Tip #3: Add Color
Some women look great in rich, vibrant colors, while others are better sticking with softer tones. Wearing colors that complement your hair, eyes and skin tone will make you look healthier and YOUNGER!
Tip #4: Know Your Backdrop Color
This one takes a little advance planning, but it’s worth it to contact the event planner and confirm the color of the stage backdrop. You do NOT want your outfit to blend in, especially if there will be a photographer and video crew to capture your performance.
Tip #5: Enhance You
Accessories are meant to add a little something to complete your look. Do not get overshadowed by noisy jewelry as it may interfere with a headset or lavalier microphone and distract your audience.
Tip #6: Comfort is Key
When you wear uncomfortable clothing it SHOWS – on your face, in your voice, and in your movements. Be especially careful to wear the right shoes so you are steady on your feet! Stages can be uneven and you do not want to be known as the woman who tripped!!
Tip #7: Fit Matters
Get to know a good tailor and keep their phone number at the top of your contact list. Well-tailored clothing is a sign of success and you’ll look fantastic, too!
Tip #8: Condition
Check each item of clothing for loose threads, missing buttons, and dry clean, steam or press all the wrinkles out so you look polished.
Tip #9: Quality
Invest in high-quality, classic pieces that are versatile and well made. Higher quality fabrics hold their shape and minimize wrinkles. When you wear well-made clothing you appear more accomplished and reflect success.
Tip #10: Posture
Now that you’ve chosen the right look, add that special touch of powerful posture. When you carry yourself with confidence you will increase your credibility and trust factor immediately.
These tips are meant to help you make a great impression the moment you step on stage. You have a message to deliver and when you follow these tips you will avoid distracting your audience from your ever-important purpose!
Portraying the right image is a key factor in delivering an effective presentation, but it is just one piece of the puzzle! Preparing a powerful presentation and knowing how to maximize your speaking ROI requires strategy and expertise and if you need support I have a great solution. Learn more about my exclusive Speak Your Brand Workshop which will help you build a branded presentation, share your message, and increase your business.