Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Speaking at the Annual Institute


It's funny how things that seem overwhelming seem to get easier over time. Today I had the privilege of speaking on Evidence to the Ontario Bar Association's Annual Institute. That's a big deal and I am honoured to do it -- but my point is different.

A few years ago I would have felt quite anxious about speaking. Perhaps I have run out of adrenalin but today it's just another task to complete. Time makes everything familiar. Not sure that's always a good thing... .

2 comments:

Stephen Downes said...

I do a lot of public speaking, and yes, it becomes routine, but no, you shouldn't let it.

The best advice I ever heard for making a talk a success (other than the obvious, like "know your subject") was "love your audience".

Sounds silly, but it changes your demeanour, and people can see the difference.

James C Morton said...

That's a good approach -- and oddly, as I think on it, it does make sense. Some of my worst talks have been to groups who, no matter what I may pretend, I have little love for!