229. Little Snippet #1: A Quick Tip If You Go Blank In a Presentation at Work
Aug 14, 2024
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Paul McGee, author of 'S.U.M.O (Shut Up, Move On)', shares invaluable insights on handling presentation mishaps. He reveals a strategic tip for overcoming that terrifying moment when your mind goes blank, inspired by a powerful keynote speech he attended. Paul emphasizes the 'sumo' mindset, encouraging professionals to maintain composure and quickly shift focus during setbacks. His personal story of resilience adds a heartfelt touch, proving that with the right attitude, you can turn challenges into opportunities.
Utilizing the Sumo technique, which means 'shut up and move on,' helps presenters regain their focus after blank moments.
Incorporating personal narratives in presentations can engage the audience by showcasing resilience and providing relatable experiences.
Deep dives
Coping with Presentation Anxiety
A useful strategy for overcoming nerves during presentations involves a mental trick known as Sumo, which stands for 'shut up and move on.' This technique helps individuals regain composure if they experience a moment of going blank while speaking. Instead of panicking or attempting to fill the silence with unnecessary words, taking a brief pause can help organize thoughts and regain focus. By embracing the mindset of Sumo, speakers can transition smoothly to the next point in their presentation without dwelling on the moment of silence.
The Impact of Personal Stories
The power of personal narratives in engaging an audience is exemplified through a keynote speech delivered by Paul McGee, who shared his life experiences during a challenging time in his career. His story included overcoming significant obstacles, such as illness, which shifted his perspective on dealing with adversity. The acronym Sumo encapsulates his approach to handling difficulties: acknowledging challenges briefly and then moving forward. This perspective not only resonated with attendees but also offered a practical lesson in maintaining momentum, both in life and during public speaking.
What should you do if you go blank in a presentation at work? I want to share with you a quick tip you can implement straight away that I picked up after listening to a wonderful presentation in Liverpool in 2017.
About Little Snippets: Mini episodes with to-the-point business communication tips to keep you learning and moving forward before the start of the brand new season of Confident Business English on 25th September 2024
Say hello on LinkedIn @AnnaConnelly
Follow me on Instagram @annabusinessenglish
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