Bite Size #132: Michael McQueen - Practical Lessons in State Management and Pre-Performance Routines Before you Speak
Aug 11, 2024
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Michael McQueen, a renowned speaker and expert in state management, shares his invaluable insights on preparing for presentations. He emphasizes the essential pre-performance routines that begin days in advance to keep energy high and stress low. McQueen discusses the importance of vocal warm-ups and mental focus, revealing how solitude aids in preparing for impactful speaking. He also highlights strategies for engaging an audience through effective opening techniques and confidence-building practices.
Managing one's emotional and cognitive states is vital for achieving a flow state that enhances presentation effectiveness and audience engagement.
Establishing a pre-performance routine, including energy management and mental preparation, significantly boosts focus and overall presentation success.
Deep dives
The Flow State and Performance
Achieving a flow state is essential for optimal performance, as it allows individuals to fully engage with their tasks while utilizing their skills and resources effectively. When in flow, speakers can draw upon their knowledge and storytelling abilities seamlessly, leading to captivating presentations. For instance, a memorable scene from a comedy film illustrates how being in this state can enhance recall and creativity during a presentation. This highlights the necessity of managing one's emotional and cognitive states leading up to and during high-stakes moments to enhance performance outcomes.
Energy Management Strategies
Managing energy levels before a presentation is crucial for maintaining focus and effectiveness. Engaging in personal interactions and familiarizing oneself with the venue facilitates a smoother transition to the performance mode, making the experience feel conversational. It's emphasized that avoiding draining activities before a presentation, such as socializing at welcome functions, can preserve energy and improve vocal readiness. Preparing mentally and physically the day before and practicing the opening remarks can significantly contribute to a successful presentation, reinforcing the importance of a pre-performance routine.
Intention and Audience Connection
Establishing a clear intention when stepping onto the stage can greatly enhance the presenter's connection with the audience. Presenters should aim to shift their focus from self-doubt to serving the audience, knowing that attendees generally want them to succeed. This shift in mindset reduces anxiety and creates a more comfortable atmosphere for everyone involved. Techniques such as memorizing the first few lines of the presentation can help set a positive tone, assuring the audience that the speaker is prepared and engaged, which ultimately can lead to a more enjoyable experience for both parties.
In this bite size from episode #82 speaker extraordinaire Michael McQueen chats to Andrew about how he manages his state before a presentation to make sure he gives the audience his best.
Michael talks about how his preparation starts the day or days before where he will do his best avoid situations that will drain his energy or strain his voice and it continues up until he is about to go on stage with vocal warmups.
You can find Michael at his Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmcqueen1 Or at his Website: https://michaelmcqueen.net/ Buy your copy of Mindstuck: https://www.booktopia.com.au/mindstuck-michael-mcqueen/book/9781637557396.html
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