Recently I had the opportunity to see The Jacksons in concert at Fringe By The Sea in North Berwick. As I sang and danced to all the familiar tunes with several thousand in the audience, I was thinking about how we can use some of their techniques to improve the way in which we connect with audiences when delivering a presentation. Here are my thoughts about what we can learn about public speaking from their performance:
🕺 The production, music and choreography was tight; everything was rehearsed to ensure a smooth performance. If you want to improve your presentation delivery, it's important to practice until it becomes second nature.
🏛 The Jacksons took time to check out the area and spoke with some of the locals prior to their show. A personal touch, like mentioning something local, can create an instant connection with your audience.
📖 Between songs lots of anecdotes were shared which made it more personal. Stories are a great way to illustrate points and keep your audience engaged when presenting.
📽 The show incorporated old videos and recorded interviews which added interest and another dynamic. Think about how visuals and multimedia could enhance your presentation.
👏 The Jacksons are masters at encouraging everyone to sing along or clap their hands. In your presentation, try asking questions, using polls or inviting participation to make it interactive and really get the audience involved.
🎵 Unsurprisingly, the vocal delivery was on point and I have no doubt they will have warmed up prior to the show. As a presenter, warming up and exercising your voice can enhance your vocal delivery and range of expression.
👚 The costumes included the expected sparkle and worked well on the large stage. When speaking in public, always dress for the occasion and ensure your 'costume' matches the style of the event and the message you want to convey, whether it's formal, casual or creative.
🔇 Silence can be powerful and The Jacksons used dramatic pauses to great effect. In your presentation, strategic pauses can emphasise key points and give your audience time to absorb information.
👉 Throughout the show, the performers hinted at what was coming up in the setlist, which built the anticipation. Similarly, guiding your audience through your presentation by giving them a roadmap of what to expect will help them to stay engaged.
💕 The Jacksons absolutely love being on stage, and it shows. When you're presenting, it's crucial to care about what you're sharing and show your passion for the topic. When you love what you're doing, your audience will feel it too.
👏 Unlike many speakers, who scurry away or sit down as soon as they're finished, The Jacksons showed how to graciously accept applause. After your presentation, allow the audience to show their appreciation, and enjoy it!
Mel Sherwood is a Presentation Skills and Personal Impact Speaker, Founder of The RED Effect™ and Author of ‘The Authority Guide to Pitching Your Business: How to make an impact and be remembered - in under a minute!’ She works with ambitious business leaders, teams and individuals who want to express themselves with confidence, credibility and charisma. An Australian based in Scotland, Mel is an award-winning speaker, author and coach and combines over 25 years’ experience in business with a background as an actor, presenter and singer.