A few notes on prep & delivery of book talks to audiences.
Memoirs of bio’s of family or specific family members need you to come alive for them.
Since I consider it a privilege to have an audience to present my book to - my notes in this posting are more observation than instruction. I am simply thrilled to be invited.
My book “Legacy of the Skies: A Grandson’s Tribute to a Legendary Aviator” dove-tailed perfectly into the American Heritage Museum’s Aviation Weekend Sept.13 & 14 in Hudson, Massachusetts.
But, they needed to know I existed so…
Self-promotion: Though I’m thrilled to be invited- all my book talks/presentations and podcast interviews developed from networking my book publication(and additional significant help and advice from my editor Jennifer Holik)
Reach out !!! to all potential outlets. Word of mouth is simply not enough.
I am using a 30 minute MS PowerPoint display of slides on my laptop and I always bring a multi-headed adapter( that so far has connected to all projection systems provided). I speak to and use my slides as my prompt for talking points and it allows me to pause and then expand on the subject detail of each slide. It also simply keeps me on track. As most presentations are timed - I can measure the time elapse more easily by this format.
Visualization: Regardless as to how stimulating the content is - projected images help bring the story alive. Period.
You are performing: If your tendency is to be introverted, now is the time to step out of your shell. Your audience responds instantly to the “vibe” you give out. Practice a “dry run” in front of spouse, family member or friend.
It’s your story: Color it - make it vivid- take your audience to the heart and soul of the storyline with antidotes, “real” examples of most pertinent moments - don’t lose the opportunity to make a poignant or profound observation about a significant moment in this person’s life. Tell it down to the detail you need for the audience to
be “in the moment”. Deliver and move on.
Body language: The audience reads this - quickly. OK to be formal (that’s me) or more talky-casual and physically relaxed. But project your desire to be there!
Obstruction: Try to stand aside the projection screen and not put your back to the audience as you discuss the image on the screen. Point or use a pointer - You can stand away from the screen that way - and still pin-point a specific part of the image. And physically project enthusiasm about your subject - Always.
Watch your presentation( if video is available)
Some of my presentations have been recorded on video so I have had a chance to see my “performance ” - for better or worse. And I always learn from it. Use it as a feedback tool. Also, ask friends/family who attended to make recommendations & honest observations or suggestions.
After book talk: If selling books directly after talk, have a supportive other at podium/ book stand to conduct purchase sale. In my most recent presentation at the American Heritage Museum, I found I was distracted trying to talk to someone while two other people stood behind us, as if in a line, as they simply wanted to buy my book. Your significant other or friend can transact while you have freedom to chat with others. And have selfie photos and make new friends!!!
Last point- Have fun with it!!! It’s not a dissertation with a pass/fail grade.
Post Script: Afterwards always thank the venue for having you. It’s respectful and your talk will travel further that way.
Back next week with another edition.