Speaking with authority

The previous chapters have led you through the process of developing targeted content for your first presentation as a new manager. The way you deliver that content, though, s the key to establishing yourself as the leader your new role requires you to be.

As a manager, practicing and honing public speaking skills is an essential part of your on-going professional development. You will increasingly be called upon to speak in public situations. Given the newness of your role, it's normal to feel apprehensive or uncertain about the tone to strike when addressing people looking to you for leadership and direction (especially if you've only recently met or been assigned to manage them). No matter how you feel internally, though, you must look calm, confident, and in control during your presentation. Your demeanor sets the tone for future interactions.

You must look and sound like a confident, capable, enthusiastic team leader. Your posture, gestures, movement, face, eye...