The following comes from TJ Walker’s upcoming book “The Wisdom of Your Audience”. Consistently, the worst advice speakers and presenters get, comes from everyone who is NOT your audience. The following gives examples of some of the WORST advice people are often given. It is followed by the advice of your audience. Listen to them. They are your true judge and jury.

Should I tell my audience that I am sick/my plane was late/I didn’t get a full night’s sleep?

Your personal assistant:   “Of course you should let people know you are feeling under the weather, boss!”

You: “I feel awful with his cold. I don’t want people to think that I normally sound like this. Plus I’m really tired. The plane didn’t get in until 3:00 AM. I’m not at my best. This isn’t fair!”

***

Your Audience: “Too much information. We don’t care about your problems at this stage of the relationship (presumably we just met you for the first time as you were being introduced). It’s not that we are mean and wish you ill-will. It’s just at this point, we don’t need to know about your medical history or your sleep problems. We have our own problems. Do you want to hear about them? We didn’t think so. Just do the best that you can and focus on giving us interesting and valuable insights and information. If someone asks later or the issue comes up, then you can talk about your problems. But don’t talk about your petty problems at the beginning of your presentation.”