When I started public speaking, it was by accident, not design.
As the host of black-tie gala events, I would stand up in the middle of a boxing ring and welcome the guests.
I thought it was my job to thank the sponsors, explain the order of the night, and cover the housekeeping.
Without exception, I had the room for the first few minutes. By the final few, I was managing it.
Maybe public speaking was not for me.
I see the same thing in coaching. Coaches stand in front of their audience, give a rundown of events, and then struggle to hold attention.
Connect the group to the purpose that brought them together, or a logistical run-through. You decide.
HT: Priya Parker