John Miers
A crippling fear of public speaking has probably shorted out more promising careers than any other single factor. In today’s high-stress environment, top performers are expected to be able to address shareholder meetings, do real-time podcasts and live TV, take part in panel discussions and speak to groups of all sizes, whether in key pitches or at large industry functions.
A lot of executives have paid a lot of money to try to shake off the discomfort. Most public speaking coaches advise them to be formulaic, to plan the speech, carefully pacing the delivery and taking calculated pauses while methodically sweeping their gaze from one side of the audience to the other. We’ve all sat through speeches like that. Guess what? It doesn’t work. The best-case scenario is the speaker gets through the event without bolting. But chances are they were somewhat short of dynamic, leaving most listeners glazed over and surreptitiously checking their watches.
John Miers, a former nuclear submarine commander and frequent media spokesman for Britain’s Royal Navy, has developed a radically different approach to public speaking. It involves teaching people how to use emotional intelligence to engage a crowd, ensuring the message gets across and their words actually have an impact.
In his new book Hit Me Again!… I Can Still Hear Him!, John explains his singular approach — helping speakers discover how to be less conscious and more natural while communicating.
Join us for wine and canapes at Bookazine (3/F, Prince’s Building, Central) at 6:30-8:30pm on Thursday July 16th as John launches his book and shares some tips on how you can become a better public speaker. Enquiries: (+852) 2525 0218.
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