The $100 MBA Show: MBA2377 - How I Prepare to Speak on Stage at Conferences

Hosted by Omar Zenhom

Introduction and Overview

In Episode MBA2377 of The $100 MBA Show, host Omar Zenhom delves into his comprehensive approach to preparing for public speaking engagements at conferences. Drawing from over a decade of professional speaking experience and two successful multi-million dollar businesses, Omar shares actionable strategies to craft and deliver impactful presentations that resonate with audiences.

1. The Importance of Public Speaking

Omar underscores the significance of public speaking in establishing authority and expanding one's professional network. He states, “Getting on stages instantly makes you an authority. You are literally above everybody else in that moment and it's a great way for you to build upon your brand and get your message out” ([02:15]). Furthermore, he likens conference speaking to “networking on steroids,” emphasizing the influx of opportunities that arise from such engagements.

2. Setting Ambitious Goals

A central tenet of Omar’s preparation is the commitment to deliver exceptional value. He articulates his goal: “my goal when I speak on stage is to give so much value that the audience feels like it was worth the price of admission for the actual conference” ([04:00]). This ambition drives him to meticulously plan every aspect of his presentation to ensure it significantly impacts the audience, whether by altering mindsets or providing novel strategies.

3. Topic Selection and Expertise

Omar advises speakers to focus on topics within their expertise. He cautions against accepting speaking opportunities on unfamiliar subjects, noting, “don't agree to topics you are unfamiliar with” ([06:10]). Instead, he recommends having a set of well-defined topics where one can consistently add value, akin to a comedian having a repertoire of established sets.

4. Scriptwriting and Editing Process

Approximately two months prior to the conference, Omar begins crafting his presentation:

• Brain Dump: He starts with a blank Google Doc, writing a rough, “super, super rough” script to capture all ideas in sequence ([07:30]).

• Refinement: After an initial read-through to assess timing, Omar edits ruthlessly, removing unnecessary content and incorporating internal notes for visuals and cues ([08:45]).

• Adding Entertainment: To ensure memorability, he intentionally includes humorous elements, anecdotes, or surprising facts every few minutes, marking these additions for focused practice ([09:15]).

Omar emphasizes the importance of making the script both concise and engaging, ensuring that each element serves a clear purpose.

5. Slide Creation and Design Principles

Omar advocates for professionally designed slides, highlighting their role as visual aids rather than textual scripts. Key principles include:

• Minimal Text: Adhering to the “T-shirt rule,” he limits slides to no more than two sentences, ensuring they complement rather than overshadow the speaker ([10:20]).

• Visuals Over Words: Utilizing images, GIFs, and illustrations to convey messages succinctly, Omar avoids cluttered slides that require extensive reading.

• Simplicity in Multimedia: To mitigate technical issues, he keeps multimedia elements straightforward, avoiding complex animations and using separate slides for each bullet point instead of animated builds ([11:00]).

Omar advises, “Your slides are a visual aid. They help you through the speech and they're incredibly effective when you never look at them” ([12:00]).

6. Rehearsal Strategy

Rehearsing is pivotal in Omar’s preparation:

• Initial Practice: He revisits the script multiple times weekly, gradually increasing the frequency as the event approaches ([13:45]).

• Full Run-Throughs: Standing up and delivering the speech with slides helps internalize the flow and timing, ensuring seamless transitions during the actual presentation.

• Focusing on Delivery: Omar practices maintaining eye contact and interaction, ensuring that his engagement with the audience remains authentic and uninterrupted by slide navigation ([15:30]).

He notes, “when you know your material and you know how to deliver, you know your script, you know your slides, you know it so well, it doesn't matter how nervous you are” ([16:10]).

7. Final Preparations: Day Before and Day Of

• Day Before: Omar keeps the day free from appointments to rest and perform a final rehearsal. He prioritizes getting a good night’s sleep and conducts a tech check to ensure all equipment functions correctly ([17:00]).

• Morning Of: He starts with exercise to boost energy, rehears once more, and performs a final tech check. Omar prefers to present in the second session of a conference when the audience is most receptive ([17:45]).

8. On-Stage Execution

On the day of the presentation, Omar follows a structured routine:

• Pre-Presentation: He ensures he has essentials like water, has taken care of personal needs, and removes potential distractions such as his Apple Watch ([18:00]).

• Presentation Delivery: Starting strong with a well-rehearsed opening, Omar maintains continuous engagement through eye contact and interactive elements, ensuring that slides serve as seamless complements rather than focal points ([18:30]).

9. Post-Presentation Engagement

After delivering his speech, Omar engages with the audience through Q&A sessions and informal networking. He invites attendees to connect with him, fostering relationships that can lead to mutual growth and opportunities ([19:15]).

10. Final Advice: Enjoy the Moment

Omar concludes with a heartfelt reminder to enjoy the speaking experience:

“Once it's time to just jump on stage, I remind myself, smile, have fun, enjoy it. Because when you're enjoying yourself, the audience will enjoy themselves” ([20:50]).

He emphasizes authenticity and enthusiasm, encouraging speakers to let their personalities shine and leave a lasting impression.

Conclusion

Omar Zenhom’s methodical approach to preparing for public speaking showcases the blend of strategic planning, content mastery, and personal engagement necessary to deliver impactful presentations. By adhering to these principles, entrepreneurs and professionals can enhance their public speaking skills, thereby amplifying their authority and expanding their professional networks.

For more practical business lessons and insights from Omar Zenhom, visit https://100mba.net.