Platform and Stage Skills for the Group Coach

In the wake of the economic challenge all businesses large or small are learning how to adapt to these constantly changing times. One awesome way to adapt is to use the power of your voice to grow your business. Your group coaching business is about engaging and connecting with your clients.

In the modeling world, one agency's slogan was, "you don't have to be a professional model to look like one".

Well, "you don't have to be a professional speaker to sound like one."

Having the proper tools of a professional speaker will help build credibility for your coaching.  There are many facets to being an awesome group coach and having great platform and stage skills will contribute to your business success.

Here are a few stage and platform tips you want to consider:

• Meet the Venue
  Set up an early visit to the location of your presentation. Get familiar with the room’s set-up so that you can fine-tune your audio visual details to suit. This will also reduce speaking anxiety.
• Pave your Introduction
  Write an intro and provide it to your host in advance of the event. In this way you can control your lead-in and gain some credibility that appears to come from an outside source.
• Wear Proper Stage Attire
  Wear clothes that are one subtle notch above your audience. Human nature draws people to admire and emulate a person who appears successful. Boost your own confidence at the same time.
• Mingle Early and Late
  Make time for schmoozing before you present. Be sure to factor time spent on equipment set-up, and also leave time for more ‘meet and greets’ afterwards. Your listeners will want to get details or discuss questions.
• Breathe
  When you feel yourself getting nervous or anxious – stop, refocus and remember to breathe. Use controlled breathing to calm yourself and regain your composure.

These are a few ideas to get you started.  I'll share more details about each tip over the next several blog posts.  Share your comments and let me know your thoughts.

DeLores Pressley is an international keynote speaker, author, life coach and the Founder of the Born Successful Institute and DeLores Pressley Worldwide. DeLores has spoken to more than 107,000 people in over 65 major cities and countries. She has been interviewed on America’s top rated shows including, OPRAH and Entertainment Tonight. She produces Speak for Hire, an educational program teaching entrepreneurs, speakers and coaches how to speak and grow their business. More about DeLores