Chapter 3Surprise, It’s Not All About You

Make sure you have finished speaking before your audience has finished listening.

—Dorothy Sarnoff

We the People

Public speaking is not just about you. Though this might come as a shock, it’s actually great news. If it were just about the speaker, an audience wouldn’t be necessary. Without an audience, it’s not “public” speaking. See how that works? Here’s another way to look at it: You are giving this speech for a reason right? Chances are good it’s not to tell people how gorgeous and smart you are. Although you might be both, you’re speaking at a specific occasion for others and typically not about you. This ...

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