Present Influence: The Professional Speaking Show

• Be a More Likeable Speaker To Land More Gigs (Without Being Fake)

  Show Notes: The Power of Liking for SpeakersWelcome back! In this solo episode, John dives into one of Robert Cialdini’s most underrated principles of influence—liking. If you’ve ever wondered why some speakers seem to get booked again and again, or how you can turn your audience into true fans without changing a word of your keynote, this episode is for you.Introduction: Why Liking MattersJohn kicks things off by sharing why understanding the principle of liking is a game-changer for anyone who wants to get booked, rebooked, or simply make a bigger impact as a speaker. It’s not just about what you say on stage—it’s about how you connect with people, both on and off the mic.The Science Behind LikingDrawing on Cialdini’s research, John explains that we’re all more likely to say “yes” to people we genuinely like. He shares his own journey, from starting out with a small audience to building a platform and podcast, all by focusing on curiosity, generosity, and authentic relationships.Real Connections vs. Transactional InteractionsJohn gets real about the difference between building genuine connections and falling into the trap of being transactional. He shares stories from his own experience—how being easy to work with and showing appreciation opened doors to new opportunities, referrals, and collaborations.How to Be More Likeable (and Why It Matters)This chapter is packed with practical advice. John talks about the importance of using audience-relevant language, sharing stories (especially the ones where things didn’t go perfectly), and being open about your own quirks and mistakes. He reminds us that being likeable isn’t about flattery or people-pleasing—it’s about being real, approachable, and easy to work with.Likability Killers to AvoidNot everything is sunshine and roses—John also covers the behaviours that can quickly destroy likability. From being overly self-focused or inauthentic, to lacking emotional presence or coming across as rigid, he explains why these habits can hold you back as a speaker.Authenticity Over PerfectionOne of the big takeaways from this episode is that you don’t need to win everyone over. In fact, trying to please everyone is a losing game. Instead, focus on showing up as someone who’s trustworthy, warm, and competent. Likability can’t make up for a bad talk, but it can turn a good one into something unforgettable.Wrapping Up & What’s NextJohn closes the episode by encouraging you to be the speaker people want to work with and invite back. If you found this valuable, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and check out the links in the show notes for free tools to help you build ethical influence. And stay tuned—the next episode will explore another of Cialdini’s heavy hitters: reciprocity.Thanks for listening! Until next time, stay present, stay likeable, and stay influential.Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Power of Liking00:38 Exploring Cialdini's Principle of Liking01:50 Personal Journey: Building Connections04:13 Ethical Application of Liking05:52 Practical Tips for Speakers07:31 Common Pitfalls to Avoid10:58 Conclusion: Elevate Your Speaking GameGo to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email

  --------  

  11:50
• The 7% Myth Busted: What Words, Tone, and Facial Expressions Convey

  Debunking the 7% Communication MythIn this episode, we debunk the widely spread myth that only 7% of communication is through words, while the remaining 93% is through tone and facial expressions. The host explains the origins of this misconception from Albert Mehrabian's research on emotional communication. The video clarifies that the 7% figure pertains to how we interpret emotions, not overall communication. Words remain crucial, comprising the majority of communication, while tone and expressions add depth and emotional context. Listeners are encouraged to challenge and help stop the propagation of this myth.00:00 Debunking the 7% Communication Myth00:52 Origins of the Myth: Albert Mehrabian's Study01:43 Understanding Emotional Intent in Communication02:21 The Role of Words, Tone, and Facial Expressions03:29 Clarifying the Misconception04:14 Final Thoughts: The Importance of WordsGo to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

  --------  

  5:08
• The Nomadic Speaker: Transforming Stage Presence into Shared Experience

  Embracing the Nomadic Mindset: Presence and Connection on StageIn this episode of Present Influence, host John Ball discusses the nomadic mindset with international speaker and author Kevin Cottam. They explore how ancient nomadic wisdom can enhance modern speakers' adaptability, presence, and connection with their audiences. Through stories from Mongolia to Morocco, Kevin shares insights on the importance of unity, flow, and curiosity for effective communication. This philosophical conversation encourages speakers to transcend traditional methods, fostering deeper and more meaningful engagement with their audiences.What does a nomadic warrior know about stage presence that most speakers never learn?In this powerful and philosophical episode, I’m joined by Kevin Cottam, international speaker, former world-class choreographer, and author of The Nomadic Mindset: Never Settle for Too Long.Together, we explore how ancient nomadic wisdom, drawn from cultures in Mongolia, Kenya, Morocco, and Namibia, can help modern speakers develop deeper presence, authentic connection, and resonant leadership.💡 Discover how presence is more than just performance; it’s unity with your space, your audience, and yourself.🔍 Topics we explore:• The surprising meaning of the word “nomad”• How speakers can ground themselves through breath, silence, and space• What stillness, curiosity, and adaptability have to do with your stagecraft• Why sameness kills growth—and how to rediscover flowWhether you're a keynote speaker, coach, or creative leader, this episode will challenge and inspire you to speak with more depth, awareness, and humanity.🎁 Free Resource from Kevin:Join The Nomadic Mindset Awakening – a free 6-part masterclass📖 Get Kevin’s Book: The Nomadic Mindset: Never Settle for Too Long🔗 Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-cottam00:00 Introduction to Nomadic Mindset00:15 Meet Kevin Cottam: From Choreographer to Speaker01:34 Exploring Presence and Unity02:06 Lessons from Nomadic Cultures03:39 The Importance of Connection in Speaking06:55 Adapting and Growing as a Speaker17:01 Understanding the Nomadic Mindset25:06 Applying Nomadic Principles to Life28:39 Practical Steps to Embrace Nomadic Thinking32:13 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsGo to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.Mentioned in this episode:New PI mid-roll

  --------  

  34:16
• Social Proof Strategies for Speakers: Amplify Your Authority

  How to Use Social Proof to Boost Your Speaking Career (Without Faking It)If you've ever felt invisible as a speaker, like you're great on stage but not getting the referrals, rebookings, or conversions you deserve, this episode is for you.We're diving into Cialdini’s principle of social proof and how it applies specifically to public and professional speakers. You’ll learn how to use testimonials, case studies, audience reactions, and endorsements to build real trust and credibility—without hype or manipulation.I also share a strange little story about the time I almost got off the wrong bus… even though I knew it wasn’t my stop. Why? Because everyone else did. It’s a perfect real-world example of how powerful social proof is, and how it influences our behaviour, even when we know better.In this episode, you’ll learn:What social proof is and why it matters for speakersHow to use testimonials and case studies inside your talks to seed future salesWhy social proof is one of the most effective tools when selling from the stageThe right (and ethical) way to ask for testimonials and case study permissionsHow to turn LinkedIn referrals and recommendations into your speaking growth engineWhat fake social proof looks like—and how it damages your credibilityWhether you're selling books, coaching, consulting, or just building your speaking brand, social proof can make or break your next opportunity. Let’s make sure it works for you—not against you.🔔 Subscribe to the show and never miss an episode in this series on Cialdini’s principles of influence, tailored for ethical, high-impact speakers.📩 Want tools, scripts, and persuasion resources in your inbox? Join the list at www.presentinfluence.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Social Proof00:32 Understanding Social Proof00:49 A Personal Anecdote on Social Proof02:00 Leveraging Testimonials and Case Studies04:20 The Power of LinkedIn for Social Proof05:11 Best Practices for Gathering Testimonials06:03 The Importance of Third-Party Introductions07:29 Incorporating Social Proof in Presentations09:44 Conclusion and Upcoming TopicsGo to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.Mentioned in this episode:New PI mid-roll

  --------  

  11:55
• The Fit Speaker: How Better Health Supercharges Your Stage Presence with Esther Avant

  As speakers, coaches, and entrepreneurs, we spend countless hours refining our message and perfecting our delivery—but how often do we invest in the vehicle that delivers it: our health?In this powerful episode of Present Influence, host John Ball sits down with health and fitness coach Esther Avant to explore the overlooked connection between physical wellness and professional presence. If you've ever struggled with energy, confidence, or consistency, this conversation will show you why your fitness habits may be the missing piece in your performance strategy.Esther shares nearly two decades of expertise helping busy professionals build sustainable health routines—even when travel, stage work, or jam-packed schedules get in the way.🎯 Topics covered include:Why speakers and coaches must prioritise health (and how it affects first impressions)The 3 “Big Rocks” of health: the simplest, most effective habits for better resultsHow to reduce friction and decision fatigue through pre-planningThe mindset shift that makes self-care non-negotiableReal talk about sleep, recovery, consistency, and how to build a lifestyle that lastsThe surprising mental benefits of fitness—including confidence, clarity, and resilienceJohn also shares his journey of improving his health, the mistakes he made, and the surprising performance benefits he's experienced since getting consistent with exercise, nutrition, and rest.Whether you're an emerging speaker or a seasoned pro, this episode will challenge you to think differently about your habits—and empower you to upgrade not just your health, but your entire presence and performance.Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Energy and Health00:24 Meet Esther Avant: Building Real Energy and Confidence01:33 The Busy Professional's Health Dilemma02:34 Creating a Sustainable Healthy Lifestyle05:07 The Power of Consistency and Self-Belief12:13 Exercise and Nutrition: The Big Rocks14:25 Rest and Recovery: Essential for Success22:38 Planning Ahead: Overcoming Decision Fatigue24:54 Overcoming Midweek Slumps25:17 Prepping for Success26:25 Queued Actions for Smooth Sailing27:03 Connecting Present and Future Self28:56 The Importance of Specific Goals33:14 Behaviour Goals vs. Outcome Goals33:58 Intermittent Fasting Insights36:22 Personalising Your Diet41:21 Tracking Progress Effectively43:21 Motivation Through Self-Reflection44:52 Conclusion and ResourcesGo to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedInYou can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluenceThanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.Mentioned in this episode:New PI mid-roll

  --------  

  47:26

Mais podcasts de Negócios

Podcasts em tendência em Negócios

Sobre Present Influence: The Professional Speaking Show

Present Influence: The Professional Speaking Show: Podcast do grupo