“When in command, take command.”
~ Norman Schwartzkopf
It is time to take command.
You are finally ready to get up and make the presentation. Regardless of your position or rank within the organization, when it is your turn to present you are supposed to be in control of the room. General Schwartzkopf tells his audiences that if you are given responsibility, take charge. Take command by standing tall, shoulders back, and head up. Let people know that you are in charge through your posture, expression and attitude.
When you get up to speak, do you dare to act as though you are in charge? A lot of people don’t, and they wonder why no one takes them as seriously as they want to be taken. There may be a few “control freaks” in your audience. Many executives fit that description. They don’t like to give up control to people who don’t deserve to take control. Respect isn’t given. It must be earned. Earn it by acting as though you deserve it. It is easy because all you have to do is stand or sit-up straight. Your audience will be more relaxed and so will you.