Practice Confidence

By Ty Boyd

Practice, as you have heard me say, doesn't make perfect. Perfection is an unattainable goal. Practice makes confidence. The better you know your material, the more confidence you have and the better the presentation ultimately is.

Judy Friedt, a longtime client from insurance company The Westfield Group, reminded me of this with her note to us. I'll let her tell the story:

"A few years ago, you held your first class here at Westfield. I was in that class. The first day, I was nervous and did a lot of "uhs and ums." By the end of the class, the non-words were gone and I was a lot more confident. I have read all of your newsletters and followed the information that you have presented. I am proud to tell you that I just got back from Las Vegas where I attended CA World sponsored by Computer Associates. Not only did I attend, but I actually did a presentation!

There were about 35 people in the room for my presentation. I got up there, took a deep breath and let it go. I did a great job (if I must say so) and didn't even have to look at my notes. I knew my information and I presented it. I had practiced and practiced.

My husband (one of my best critics) was in the audience and he was amazed. Even he said I did a great job. I didn't fumble for words or use any non-words. The practice paid off.

I want to thank you for giving me not only the tools to do the public speaking but the courage to actually get out there and do it. I look forward to doing more."

So, take Judy's advice: practice. Confidence - and a great presentation - will follow.

Ty Boyd, CEO of Ty Boyd Executive Learning Systems, is in the Broadcast Hall of Fame and the Speakers Hall of Fame. He has taught public speaking and presentation skills to Fortune 1000 executives in more than 40 countries. Zipline is Ty's award-winning monthly enewsletter.

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