What I Learned Presenting Two Workshops the Same Day

I was lucky to be invited to present not one, but two workshops at a leadership conference. One focused on Yes-and leadership and the other on storytelling. The first workshop the space filled quickly and was standing room only.

I was pumped.

After the enthusiastic sponsor announced me, I jumped on stage and performed with an exuberant fervor and flow. This workshop was so much fun. The audience listened intensely.  They laughed and participated.

Flying on this high, I expected the same size and audience response in my next workshop in the same space.

The loud, packed room quickly turned sparse.  Less than half spread thinly throughout the area. With 10 minutes cut from my speaking time and loud clanging noises from the next room, I was distracted and disheartened to say the least. I still gave my best effort, yet my energy was influenced by the outside circumstances.

What would I do differently?

I’d let go of the story in my head that said this audience wasn’t as engaged.  

They were.  Just a smaller group.

Prior to the presentation, I’d ask what they needed and wanted from this session.

Then make the necessary adjustments to my content.

I’d get off the stage and stand closer, be nearer to them.

Each speaking experience is different.