The beauty of America’s interstates is intriguing. There are millions of cars driving at speeds of 70mph – sometimes upwards of 80, only separated by painted dashes in the road and a few inches to spare. It’s really amazing when you think about it.
If you live in a metro area, you put your life in other people’s hands every single morning when you drive into work. Why do you do this everyday with no fear or hesitation? Trust. You trust those around you. You have confidence that they will accomplish their task of commuting without bringing harm to you. You trust them and they trust you.
When people walk in to hear you speak, they give you trust just as people do when they hit the road. Unfortunately, most speakers don’t know how to maintain that trust and lose credibility quickly, often within the first few minutes or even seconds of their presentation. Establishing and maintaining trust is the most important component of any presentation. As mentioned before, people naturally give it, but keeping it is the hardest task. Here’s how to maintain it:
Be Genuine
Simply, be yourself. Audiences can quickly tell the difference between an expert and a faker. Be real. Be true. The audience will appreciate it. Developing trust through genuine behavior with your audience is the hardest but most rewarding thing you can do when communicating with a group.
Be Factual
Show statistics, graphs, charts – anything to help solidify that you know what you are discussing. Credibility comes instantly when your audience perceives you as an expert. Present your facts but proceed with caution – there is a gray line between presenting too much and too little information. Say too much and eyes will glaze over. Say too little and people will think you are a poser.
Be Giving
Life is about contribution. It’s about sharing with the masses. A great presenter equips his or her listeners with the tools, knowledge, and resources needed to help them grow. People want to walk away with something of value. Provide them with something that either motivates, changes, or improves their life.
The next time you pull out of the driveway, remember that trust is what keeps you and the people around you moving. Without trust, we would all be hiding in our homes. People trust you. Don’t take advantage of it. Unlike the conformists of today who build unmemorable presentations, a great presenter establishes and maintains credibility.
