Tee Up Your Speech: Golf is Like Public Speaking Tips 5-8
As an experienced speech and communication coach and an emerging golfer, I see numerous parallels between mastering the skills of public speaking and golf. Let’s look at some of these tips. Let’s look at four more tips.
Tip #5: Be present and don’t think ahead of yourself.
Stay focused and enjoy the moment. If we start to worry about what might or might not happen, we lose our connection.
With golf, you can get derailed if you think too much. Learn to focus on relaxing and hitting the ball.
In public speaking, our audience can tell if we are not "present." This can be anything from memorizing a speech, becoming uncomfortable if interrupted, or panicking when something doesn't go as planned.
Take a breath, stay present, and know that whatever comes your way, you'll be able to deal with it!
What do you do to remain focused?
Tip #6: Find a mentor or role model.
Watching a professional is an excellent way to improve your performance. We have an opportunity to observe someone who has reached a high level of accomplishment. We may emulate their skills and learn what to do in various situations. We may also see that they, too, make mistakes and watch how they recover.
The same holds true for public speaking. Watching the masters in your field can help you establish goals for performing, as long as you remain realistic. You can also learn styles and techniques that work. Find someone who can help you master your own skills. Always remember to remain true to yourself. You don't have to be exactly like your model or mentor.
Who is your role model?
Tip #7: Take Lessons and Have a Coach
We can’t always do it on our own. A coach will give us feedback, reinforce our good techniques, and teach us what can do to improve.
If we want to get better, lessons will help us systematically improve what is necessary to master a skill. We need to find the right person who we trust to help us achieve our goals. The same person may not be right for everyone.
Of course, the same applies to public speaking. Receiving feedback and learning strategies will make us better speakers or presenters. Find the person who can get you to that point.
Tip #8: Know the Rules of Your Course/Venue
Find out ahead of time to avoid problems, confusion, or mistakes.
Can you drive your cart on the course? What is the pin placement? Knowing the rules will help you navigate.
With public speaking, where will you be situated? Is there a stage or lectern? Willl they have a microphone? What type of microphone will you have? Will there be freedom to walk around the room? What are they providing? Do you need to bring your own laptop? Will there be a break? Do you need your own remote (I always bring my own!)? Do you have any restrictions?
It's always best to ask questions ahead of time so you are fully prepared for the specific engagement. What are some other questions you should ask?
Let me know if you have tips to add and reach out if you have any questions,
Stay tuned for more tips. Hit ‘em straight!
Lynda
Lynda Katz Wilner, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech and Communication Trainer/Coach
410-356-5666
