In this insightful and practical blog post, award-winning speaker and coach Rikki Arundel explores one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of public speaking: Platform Mechanics. Drawing on decades of experience, Rikki explains how everything except your speech content—room layout, AV setup, tech crew, microphones, slides, lighting, and even late arrivals—can make or break your presentation.
With a gripping personal story from a disaster-stricken Wembley event, Rikki shares practical tips on how to work with the team, avoid common pitfalls, and adapt when things inevitably go wrong. Whether you’re a seasoned keynote speaker or preparing for your first big talk, this post will help you plan for the unexpected and stay in control. Essential reading for anyone serious about delivering unforgettable presentations.
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In this thought-provoking piece, professional speaking coach Rikki Arundel shares a vital lesson for anyone speaking at trade shows: less is more. Drawing on decades of experience, Rikki explains why overloading audiences with information is the fastest way to lose them, especially in noisy, fast-paced trade show environments. Instead, they advocate for clear, outcome-driven talks focused on solving the one big problem your ideal client cares about. It’s a must-read for exhibitors, marketers, and anyone looking to maximise their impact on the trade show floor.
Download Rikki's free Trade Show Speaker’s Survival Guide — packed with practical ideas to help you craft a compelling, high-impact talk that works with the trade show environment, not against it.
This post explores the underestimated value of public speaking at trade shows and industry conferences, emphasising its role as a pivotal skill for success in these environments. Despite a common belief that trade show speaking is unpaid, Rikki Arundel reveals that it provides substantial benefits through client engagements and coaching opportunities. Trade show and conference speakers play a crucial role in keeping audiences engaged, contributing to the overall success of these events by maintaining visitor interest beyond mere exhibitions.
The article explains the unique challenges faced by speakers at trade shows, such as competing with the ambient noise and drawing in attendees from bustling exhibition spaces. Despite these challenges, speaking at such events is highlighted as a valuable way to bolster one's professional profile and expand business networks. It underscores the importance of delivering captivating content to attract and retain audiences, ultimately enhancing the trade show's impact.
For those seeking to enhance their public speaking skills in these settings, Rikki offers a free Trade Show Speaking Survival Guide. This resource is designed to equip speakers with insights and strategies tailored specifically for the distinctive environment of trade shows and conferences. By mastering these skills, professionals can leverage trade show speaking opportunities to accelerate their careers and foster crucial industry connections.
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