Andrea McLean Instagram – A whistle stop look at my day in Hull, as keynote speaker at the @sailors_childrens_society lunch. Supported by @heysmilefoundation this incredible charity offers financial and emotional support to children and families from seafaring backgrounds in times of crisis.
It was a big ‘do’, attended by 500 women, (and a couple of men).
I didn’t write a speech.
It might sound strange, to turn up at an event knowing you’re going to have to give a half hour long talk, and not write a speech.
But I’ve learned that the best talks are the ones that come from the heart, and are relevant to the audience. How many events have you been to where you KNOW the speaker has just unfolded the same crumpled sheets of paper that they used at the last event, and the one before?
The biggest skill a presenter has is being able to listen, not just talk. Spending a full day somewhere (I didn’t show that in the video) and get a feel for what will resonate, is key.
Of course I had done my research on the charity and the event beforehand, it’s not a case of turning up and winging it. It’s about knowing what you’re able to bring, using the ingredients of the day mixed in with your own stories and learnings. A bit like Ready, Steady, Cook* – but with talking.
I loved today. I loved how up for it everyone was. How they wanted to enjoy the day and have fun. Until next time Hull!
*For anyone too young to understand what I meant, Ready, Steady, Cook was a TV show where contestants had a certain amount of time to cook a great dish using ingredients they were given on the day. It was great. A bit chaotic and not always successful but terrific fun. Much like me. 😁
(A big thank you to @cherylkhicks for being my wingwoman today, and for her expert filming 😄) | Posted on 08/Mar/2025 00:10:02
