Setting the Stage to Connect

The first thing I want to see when I arrive on location for an event is the meeting space.

I want to walk around the room, see the stage set-up, and check out the seating arrangement.

I am very intentional about this part of my process.

The room is my performance partner.

It has everything to do with the success of my keynote and the ability to connect with the audience.

Or not.

I know many speakers that are content with whatever setup they find upon arrival in the room.

To me, it’s too much of a risk.

My job is to make an impact.

To connect at the human level.

If the room affects my speech, the connection is in jeopardy.

No connection. No impact.

Let me give you an example of what I am talking about.

Recently I was speaking in Texas.

When I saw the room the night before, I knew I had my work cut out for me.

First, it was in an exhibit hall with concrete floors.

Right out of the gate, I knew we would have a sound issue.

Poor acoustics and reverb.

Not the best scenario.

Note to self to be down early to speak to the AV team.

Next the stage.

The lectern was in the middle of the stage flanked by a flag on each side.

There was also a head table with chairs.

That won’t work for me.

These physical barriers between me and the attendees make it harder to connect.

What did I do?

Rearranged the stage of course.

Next, the seating arrangements.

Metal chairs on a concrete floor.

Noisy.

Round tables were set for 10 per table.

There were 60 tables.

There were roughly 20 feet between me and the first row of tables.

Knowing that I have a barrier of distance and noise meant that I had to lean into them, elevate my vocals, and bring more energy.

Which is what I did.

I was humbled to receive a standing ovation for that performance.

It was with the extra effort to set the stage to connect in the best way possible.

When it comes to connecting with others, I want to encourage you to be mindful of setting the stage to connect.

Whether your audience is one or one thousand it is critical to set the stage when you are delivering an important message.

Minimize or eliminate physical barriers.

Close the distance gap between you and your audience.

It is also important to see who you are talking to.

When I am on stage, I want the lights up.

Visual cues and eye contact are vital elements when connecting with others.

If you’re in person, establish eye contact and validate that you are interested in them.

Body language tells an important story as to whether your message has landed.

Or not.

If you’re virtual, turn the cameras on.

Make sure your environment is such that your audience can hear you.

Background noise and poor connections are the killers of effectively communicating with others.

Too often we assume that communication has occurred when it has not.

It is impossible to communicate effectively when there is no connection.

Don’t assume that you got through.

Be intentional.

Own the stage.

Make an impact.

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Kevin D. Brown is a branding and culture expert. He’s an award-winning motivational speaker, bestselling author, and the creator of The Hero Effect®. Follow him on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.