Public speaking is challenging, even if it’s your job. Aside from the possible discomfort that can arise by addressing a roomful of strangers, the real mountain to climb is: How do I actually connect with these people so I can make an impact on them?
That’s why I always lead my training sessions with 2 or 3 quotes (with my own comments) when I begin a training session (no matter the lesson topic). This simple icebreaker serves to:
- Build a rapport and connection with the trainees: It encourages a conversation, they comment, interact with me, and we begin to build a trust for the week.
- Reinforce the training topic for that week: Learning retention is a funny thing, and the quotes help abbreviate the big lessons we’re working through, therefore helping to affect real change both within the organization and for each individual trainee.
- Demonstrate my care and concern for their professional and personal development: Because I do care, and hopefully by encouraging conversation in the training room and between training sessions I can demonstrate that concern in every classroom I enter.
- Create followers and fans for when it’s time for me to leave the company.
There’s no hidden agenda or attachment. I never solicit any of my other services, products, or events to any of my trainees while I’m working with a company. At the end of the training, however, I do invite them to join me on my mailing list or social media channels. By now, they’ve become true followers and believers in what I do and the skills I have to offer—which will usually lead to business referrals & other customer advocacy that’s hard to put a price on.
Regards,
Robb Braun, Founder & President
The Leadership Source
25185 Madison Avenue, Suite A
Murrieta, CA 92562
Phone: 951-234-3351
Robb@theleadershipsource.com
http://TheLeadershipSource.com
http://RobbBraun.com
