Here at Forté Consulting, Bethany Hart and I have been spending quality time helping speakers prepare for everything from big-stage keynotes to small-stage virtual meetings. We’ve seen it all—from last-minute scramblers to those who fine-tune every moment like it’s a Taylor Swift Eras Tour performance.
Here’s what we’ve learned… whether you’re an ultra-planner or a die-hard procrastinator, you might be making things harder than they need to be. If you want to engage your audience, deliver your message with impact, and feel great doing it, follow these four steps:
- Know Your Audience
Before you craft a single slide, think about who you’re speaking to. Who are they? What do they already know? What do they need to know? How will they use the information you share?
When you focus on them, you create something engaging, relevant, and memorable. It’s not about you… it’s about serving them (Bonus tip: this is also an excellent nerve strategy!)
- Identify the vision
Now that you know your audience, get clear on your goal.How do you want them to feel during your presentation? What do you want them to do afterward? This helps you shape your message, and rehearse, in a way that truly connects and inspires.
- Craft Your Messages
Distill your ideas into three clear, memorable points. These should be short, simple sentences—easy to hear, easy to remember, and easy to repeat. If your audience can’t remember it, it didn’t land.
- Build a Strong Frame
A strong structure gives you the freedom to show up with confidence and creativity. Here’s a simple formula:
- Start with a hook A story, a shocking fact, or bold question will draw people in.
- Organize in 3s A structure of 3 helps you–and your listeners–track your ideas. Here’s a simple, effective framework: define the problem, offer a solution, and show how it works.
- Close on a high note Share your vision and reinforce your key messages. End with something that leaves your audience inspired and clear on what comes next.
A simple structure keeps you grounded, and gives you room to shine.
Worried about gestures? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most common concerns we hear. But here’s the good news: when your messages are clear and your structure is solid, your gestures will follow naturally. Still feeling unsure? Relax, take a breath, and check out these practical tips from a past newsletter Should You Dissect Your Moves?
Here are other related topics that will help you nail it on stage–and on Zoom, too!
Stumbles on Stage: How to Beat a Speak Up Blunder
Getting ready for an upcoming event? Let us know—we’re here to help. Already delivered a presentation? We’re happy to review it with you. We love what we do, and we love supporting you!
