IN LOVE WITH THE AUDIENCE
Andrea Pacini —
Andy Lopata – a brilliant speaker and author – was once invited to speak at an event for a hairdressing company.
He wasn’t a hairdresser. He didn’t know the industry. But instead of guessing what might resonate, he did something simple – and smart.
He asked to meet five people who would be in the audience. He spoke with them and asked questions. He learned what mattered to them and what challenges they faced.
Then he built his talk around what he’d learned. He used their language. He wove in their stories. And he delivered a talk that felt relevant to the people in the room.
That’s what great speakers do. They focus on who they’re speaking to.
Before they even think about what they want to say, they ask themselves:
- Who’s in the room?
- What do they care about?
- What do they need to believe, feel or do?
The best speakers are in love with their audience. They prepare like it matters – because it does.
So before your next presentation, pause and ask yourself:
Do I really understand who I’m speaking to?
This reflection is adapted from Timeless Presenter, my book on the principles of communication that never expire.