I didn't see your post as negative. I respect people who speak their mind, rather than those who are overly concerned about being politically correct.
What I am really saying is that you already know the audience has high expectations, and that you are insecure about talking in front of them. Your mind and body know this and there is no way to trick yourself into forgetting this. So rather than avoid the obvious, you dive deep into it, to resolve it. You explore the fear and let it become your friend. This is how you transform it.
So what you do is look at your presentation from the audience's eyes. Watch yourself watch other speakers. Deep down inside, you want the speaker to hold your interest and convey calm and confidence. You want that for the speaker. When you realize that the people watching you also want this for you, that that is their mindset when they are sitting in front of you, you realize it's actually harder to screw up than it is to "wow" them -- because they are already emotionally on your side.
People are like horses. Ever watch the "Horse Whisperer", the movie? People want to be led because it feels good. It's like being in momma's arms again. It is nurturing for them. So you could call this "loving" your audience, but if you really examine it, it's about guiding the deep emotional needs of the people sitting in front of you. Be the horse whisperer, and sooth your audience. They want you to do that for them. It's a game of seduction.
I hope this makes sense.  |