335: Deconstructing The Art & Science Of Public Speaking With Jay Acunzo
The Learning Leader Show With Ryan Hawk
Engaging Public Speaking
Summary: Jay Acunzo emphasizes that impactful speaking isn't about showcasing expertise, but about guiding the audience to discover hidden truths. He champions an investigative approach, posing thought-provoking questions to lead the audience from their current understanding to a new perspective, fostering a transformative experience. Keynotes and breakouts become platforms for shared exploration rather than mere information delivery. Acunzo suggests that the speaker's role is to get the audience from where they are to where they want to be. An engaging speaker act as investigators rather than just experts giving list of instructions.
- 💡 Investigative Speaker: Shift from being an expert to an investigator. Instead of presenting ready-made answers, ask probing questions, conduct thorough research, and guide your audience through a journey of discovery. This fosters deeper engagement and lasting impact. Think of your talk as a conversation that evolves organically, enriching the audience’s experience.
- ✨ Guiding Light: Your goal as a speaker is to illuminate a different perspective, one that fundamentally alters the audience's work and lives for the better. Lead them from their status quo to a hidden truth, fostering those 'aha!' moments that resonate long after the talk concludes.
- 🗣️ Interactive Dialogue: Embrace the power of conversation. Unlike blog posts or emails, speaking offers a unique opportunity for dynamic exchange. Encourage audience participation, respond to their questions, and weave their insights into your narrative. Transform your presentation into a shared journey of exploration.
- 🎭 From Expert to Investigator: Transitioning from an expert to an investigator involves reframing your approach. Instead of simply presenting findings, guide your audience through the process of discovery. Engage in thought-provoking dialogue, delve into assumptions, and collaboratively uncover hidden truths.
- 🚀 Keynote vs. Breakout: While keynotes may resemble a one-way information broadcast, breakouts should prioritize engagement and dialogue. Facilitate discussions, encourage audience participation, and create a workshop-like environment. This fosters a deeper connection with your audience and allows for a more personalized and impactful experience.
Key Takeaway: Speaking is less about showcasing your expertise and more about guiding your audience on a transformative journey of discovery.
Notable Quotes:
>“I think the difference between an engaging talk [...] is instead of trying to be an expert, you’re really good at acting like an investigator.” —Jay Acunzo
