I is for me, myself, and I…or is it?
I have been helping people become professional speakers for about ten years. I have helped individuals, peers in NSA, and audience members. The biggest reason most people want to become speakers is because they have a great story, they have overcome something big in their lives, they love to talk, or they love to teach.
In the beginning most speakers, or business owners for that matter, want to share something they love with the world. However, I believe real success comes when you stop thinking about what you know, what you have experienced, and what you want to teach, and start thinking about what your audience might need to learn to improve their lives. When we shift from what we want and what we think, to how can we serve, everything changes.
When we intend to benefit our listeners, we can teach and share the many lessons that can be found inside of every story. When I teach people how to grow a speaking business first I start by figuring out what story I’m going to tell. Next, I determine what lesson is in the story. Finally, I ask myself how I can teach this to someone else so it benefits their business.
When I move from I hope they like me to I hope they like themselves more when I get done speaking, it moves me out of the way so the audience can learn the lessons that will enhance their lives. When I move from me to them, they win first and then I win. When your client or audience is engaged and happy, you begin to build a lifelong relationship.
This week, I encourage you to use fewer “I” statements, and instead ask questions about your audience or clients and see where it takes you.
What does living your exceptional life look like to you?
When you speak or sell do you think first about what is in it for your client or for yourself?
Let Annie know! E-mail her at:
Annie@AnnieMeehan.com
How can you shift your thoughts and words to be more “them” focused?
Share your thoughts with Annie! E-mail her at:
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