Stop Educating and Start Connecting with Mike Ganino
Oct 08, 2024As a business owner, effective communication is crucial—whether you're pitching to clients, leading a team, or speaking at an event. Too often, we fall into the trap of over-educating rather than truly connecting. This was the focus of a conversation on the "Keep What You Earn" podcast between host Shannon Weinstein and speaker coach Mike Ganino.
Mike emphasized that the way we deliver our message is as important as the message itself. "How we show up in a room, the choices we make with how our voice sounds, how we move, really impacts the meaning to the message as much to other people as it does ourselves," Mike explained. Most people focus on content, but Mike advises paying attention to factors like pacing, tone, body language, and movement. These elements play a crucial role in how your audience receives your message.
Another pivotal point Mike made was the importance of creating demand for your knowledge before diving into educational content. "If you start teaching me before you've created demand for that teaching, then it's all... what I'm thinking as an audience member is, 'Well, I think there's another way,'" Mike said. This gets at the heart of why connection is more critical than credential. Shannon echoed this, sharing her experience of receiving podcast pitches full of impressive credentials but lacking genuine human connection.
Mike emphasizes using storytelling to create that connection. By sharing his own experiences—both successful and otherwise—he draws the audience in and builds trust. "I included that thing of like, 'But I did the same thing a lot of you were doing...'" he said, which makes him relatable and credible. Stories are more engaging and memorable than a list of facts or figures.
From crouching down to evoke memories of his childhood to stepping back to signify his insecurity, Mike uses physical movement to enhance storytelling. "Audiences listen with their eyes as well," he reminded us. Simple gestures and movements can add layers of meaning to your message, making your presentation far more impactful. Shannon pointed out a memorable moment from Mike’s talk where he got down on one knee to convey the vulnerability of his younger self, making his narrative more vivid and relatable.
Public speaking anxiety is often cited as a top fear, but as Mike clarified, it’s one of the most commonly shared fears. This understanding can be liberating. When you recognize that you're not alone, it becomes easier to tackle. Shannon mentioned the widespread nerves about what to do with one's hands or how to walk around during a presentation. Both agreed that practice and awareness could significantly diminish anxiety and boost confidence.
In business, effective communication can be your secret weapon. Shannon summed it up perfectly: "Connection over credential." Prioritizing genuine connections over presenting a list of achievements can make a world of difference. In an era where AI can generate perfect pitches or speeches, the human element—your unique voice, stories, and body language—remains irreplaceable. These aspects can't be captured in a bullet point or on a one-sheeter; they are what make you memorable and effective.
By focusing on connection over education and using storytelling techniques, refined body language, and vocal variety, you can stand out and become more referable in your field. So, the next time you prepare for a presentation or craft a pitch, remember Mike’s advice: stop educating and start connecting.
Mike Ganino is a culture and storytelling expert who helps leaders communicate, connect, and engage. Author of Company Culture for Dummies and named a top 30 Culture Speaker by Global Guru, Mike combines his experience as a hospitality and tech executive with his improv background to help clients craft impactful stories that drive culture and boost results. He has worked with companies like Uber, US Foods, and Snagajob, and is a faculty member at Heroic Public Speaking. Mike is also the Head Performance Coach for TEDx Cambridge, known for his high-energy keynotes that inspire immediate action.
Website: www.mikeganino.com
Special Offer: www.mikeganino.com/storycraft
What you'll hear in this episode:
04:07 Success in public speaking is intentional, not instinctive.
07:50 Use pacing, volume, proximity to cue emotions.
11:33 Mike introduced himself rambling at a conference, lesson learned.
16:06 Need video showcasing your personality on camera.
If you like this episode, check out:
Lowering Your Price to Sell More?
Product or Experience - What is More Important?
Want to learn more so you can earn more?
Transform your small business journey – download the Small Business $tarter Kit here.
Visit keepwhatyouearn.com to dive deeper on our episodes
Visit keepwhatyouearncfo.com to work with Shannon and her team
Watch this episode and more here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMlIuZsrllp1Uc_MlhriLvQ
Connect with Shannon on IG: https://www.instagram.com/shannonkweinstein/
The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.
