In any number of circumstances, we're called upon to tell our story, to recount some aspect of our personal or professional history and how we came to be who we are. Here's how to do this more effectively:
- We often assume that because we've lived our story we know how to tell it, and so we wing it. This leads to rambling. Don't memorize a script, but map out the themes you want to address. Practice with a timer to get a sense of the rhythm and pace that feel right. Make the most of the time available, while ensuring that you don't run long.
- We rely too heavily on chronology, which is an obvious way to tell our story, but not necessarily the most compelling. What other lens can you apply to your experiences? What is the narrative arc? Seek to convey a sense of drama, rather than simply reciting facts as though you were reading your resume.
- We typically include too many details.Think bigger. Talk about the why, and not just the what and the when. Help people understand who you are and not simply what you've done.
- Most people speak too quickly in these situations. Slowing down is calming, gives your words more emphasis, and helps your audience. Remember that they want you to succeed as much as you do.
For Further Reading
Stagefright and Public Speaking
Top Ten Speaking Tips (R. Todd Stephens, 2005)
Thanks to Raymond Carver for inspiring this post's title.
Photo by JohnDiew0107.