Performing on stage is one of the most satisfying pursuits one can ever indulge in. The butterflies that one feels before a performance, the thrill of performing in front of an audience, the euphoria that one feels when the audience calls for an encore; all this makes the life of an entertainer very fulfilling.
An entertainer could be doing anything creative - he could be a singer, musician, stand-up comedian or an emcee. But although there are many entertainers today, few can qualify to be called great entertainers. Apart from talent, one needs to connect with their audience on an interplanar level, each time they perform. Being able to talk well is good, but your stage presence matters a lot more.
The 90-Second Rule
Always remember that your audience is very impatient. They are also very judgmental. So you need to start with a bang. Think of innovative ways to catch the audience's attention in 90 seconds or under. Why it is a delight to watch Shah Rukh Khan or Russell Peters on stage is because he starts off by touching the right note. Depend generously on humor to get the desired result.
KISS
If you want to truly make an impact, you should Keep It Simple, Stupid! No flowery language please. A higher vocabulary doesn't drive home the message with the impact that simple, crisp words cast.
Engage The Audience
I remember sitting for a guest lecture once, where the lecturer had such great, insightful and interesting things to say, but few people actually cared to listen. A very sad example of how yet another presenter failed to engage with the audience. If you want your audience to actually listen, you should make the audience part of the show. For example if you are delivering a talk about success, you should ask them what their definition of success is. And ask the audience members to raise their hands if they truly want to be successful.
Look Relaxed But Not Lazy
Don't be too boisterous or lazy. The audience doesn't like either. Your stage presence should exude understated confidence. It warms the audience towards you. If you appear as too confident, the audience might give you a critical reception.
Pictures
Don't keep it strictly spoken. Drive home the point by using imagery wherever possible. Charts and thought provoking images can be used to explain the main points of your matter.
Learn By Heart
Take cues only when necessary. Prepare the piece well. Audience loses connect when you keep going back to your cues. It should look like you are completely at ease with the topic even though you are slightly uncertain in your head.
Arrange by dearJulius.com Team
