I got a question from a young entrepreneur in my Speak as a Leader community last week:
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She was a new CEO and was concerned that she wouldn’t come across as an authority in her industry.
Fun fact this Sunday: you don’t need to be a CEO to speak like one.
But if you speak like a CEO, you’re more likely to:
- Become one.
- Be seen, heard and remembered.
- Become an authority in your industry.
And if you are a CEO, then it’s even more crucial to level up the way you speak.
Here are 5 ways to speak like a CEO:
1. Speak like a leader by being an exceptional listener
Most people THINK they’re great listeners but they aren’t.
They miss a number of details because they’re too busy thinking of how to respond.
Listening is not waiting for your turn to speak. Learn to really listen, observe and make note of details that others miss.
2. Commit to your thoughts as you speak
Don’t speak in starts and stops. Don’t edit yourself as you speak.
When you start a sentence, commit to it and see it all the way through.
You will sound clear, confident and credible.
3. Don’t ramble when you speak
I get it. You get new thoughts as you’re speaking and you give in to the temptation to elongate your sentences by using “and” to add on that second thought and then that third thought and you see where I’m going with this?
Using “and” as a connector is lazy speaking. Replace “and” with full-stops. Use shorter sentences. You’ll get more folks listening more intently.
4. Take command of your voice when you speak
Don’t settle for that monotone. When you speak with intention, you vary your tone and pitch. You project your voice and enunciate instead of mumbling.
It’s not about being theatrical or bringing over the top drama. It’s about finding your true voice so that you can make the best impression when it counts.
Check out the video below to learn how to use your voice’s pitch, pacing and projection qualities to speak with impact.
5. Know when to stop speaking
Nervous speakers often speak for too long without a pause.
Learn to embrace the pause – for dramatic effect, as well as to check in with your audience. When you speak succinctly and precisely, you get and keep your listener’s attention.
If you have an upcoming keynote or talk, stay tuned for next week’s newsletter on how I helped Leslie create her signature keynote that launched her business. (Or if you need urgent help, reach out).
Till next Sunday,
Speak fearlessly.
💜 Nausheen
