5.4. DRILL, BABY, DRILL

Now, you rehearse. Study the research; examine the case studies; practice, practice, practice. I never go on stage without eight dry runs under my belt—preferably more. You might think it sounds tedious, but I disagree: A 100-member audience attending an hour-long presentation is giving up 100 collective hours. The least I can do is spend eight hours over the course of several weeks tweaking, whittling, and honing my content. I'll clarify what is important and what can be cut. I'll communicate respect for their time. I'll feel absolutely and unstoppably confident when I take the stage. I will win, even if there isn't a competition.

Don't go through the trouble of clarifying, brainstorming, and outlining only to get on stage and give a tentative performance. Persuasion is about perceived authority; even if you say the exact same words with or without practice, I promise the effect will be greater with practice. Aim to appear as if your content is spilling off the top of your head, just the way you would speak with a family member or friend. And keep practicing until you reach that point.