I heard an interview with a professional speaker who made a profound statement regarding training. He said “People don’t care what you have done, they don’t care what you know. What they really care about is what you can teach them.” If I could remember who said it I would give them credit as I believe this is a powerful guiding principle for trainers and I use this quote during my Excellence in Training presentations and courses.
Why am I talking about this? Because I see too many trainers that spend 10 to 15 minutes of their presentation going over their bio with the audience. This is generally a waste of time and as a general rule is usually a less desirable way to start a presentation.
In many cases people know who you are before the presentation ever starts. If it is necessary to provide an introduction to establish credibility then give it out in advance or have someone else introduce you at the start of your presentation. If someone is going to introduce you make sure you provide them with a short bio they can read. After the introduction jump right into your presentation and resist the urge to add to your bio. In most cases you can cover your bio in small bites during the presentation rather than at the start. This allows you to start with a bang and capture the attention of the audience immediately.
If people truly want to know what you can teach them, and I believe that to be true, then focus on the message. Sell the material and sell solutions to their problems rather than selling yourself. If you focus on the audience and provide a great learning environment for them, they will be sold on you as well.
Take care.
Brian Willis
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