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 show my audience that I am well-organized by telling them at the beginning the outline of my whole speech?

Your Speech Writer: “Yes, you want to show your audience that you are well-prepared.”

Your Boss: “Yes, this is the logical and rational thing to do.”

Your Speech Teacher: “Yes, you and your audience need a clear roadmap for your speech.”

You: “Yes, my audience will be impressed that I prepared so thoroughly for them.”

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Your Audience: “Huh? What are you, our high school teacher? Do you really think we are going to write down your outline? If you waste time telling us what you’re going to tell us later, then you are practically begging me to take a little nap at the beginning of your speech, since you will cover everything later. Why not just hop into your speech by telling me something really interesting, useful and memorable right at the beginning?”