SPEAKING

I started speaking before I realized I was speaking - today speaking has become an essential part of me and the job I do. Well, I am not really a professional speaker, I do not have a degree in public speaking, and I am an introvert. But I love the buzz from speaking and I want to share with you how I started, what I learned, and why speaking is an essential skill for anyone who wants to communicate effectively and make an impact.

Speaking before I knew I was speaking

I have always been curious and eager to learn things. I would read books, watch documentaries, and listen to podcasts about all kinds of topics. And then I would share what I learned with my friends, family, and classmates. I did not think of it as speaking, I just thought of it as sharing my passion and enthusiasm.

As I grew older, I continued to learn and share, but I also started to face some challenges. I did not like public speaking, I did not like being in the spotlight, and I hated making mistakes. Speaking was something I had to do, not something I wanted to do.

I am not really a professional speaker, I do not have a degree in public speaking, and I am an introvert.

Everything changed in 2014, when I came across an epic video, How to avoid death By PowerPoint  by David JP Phillips  . I was blown out of the water by his presentation. He was engaging, funny, and informative. He used simple slides, powerful stories, and effective techniques. He made me laugh, think, and feel. He made me want to dig into the art and craft of speaking.

I began exploring the skills and science behind speaking. I learned about the importance of structure, storytelling, body language, voice, and emotions. I explored the psychology of attention, memory, and persuasion. I explored the art and craft of speaking. I quickly set out on a mission to start transforming slide-driven presentations to speaking.

I always strive to blend education with entertainment by ensuring substance and engagement with the audience, and a massive amount of energy goes into all my talks, and I am continuously refining style and techniques, as Being an Introvert and a speaker always requires a lot of efforts

The journey

Since then, I have built up extensive speaking experience in front of large groups as well as in more focused settings on a wide variety of formats. I have spoken at conferences, workshops, webinars, podcasts, and meetups. I have spoken about technology, business, education, and personal development. I have spoken to audiences of different backgrounds, cultures, and interests.

I am the founding member of the Windows Management User Group, Denmark (formerly Everything Windows User Group, Denmark) and part of the Workplace Ninjas User Group, Denmark  team. I have facilitated numerous seminars and events and have made several speaker appearances over the years. With a passionate style of delivery, combined with a sense of humor, I believe, I am an acknowledged speaker.

The joy

Speaking has become an essential part of me. I love speaking because it allows me to share my knowledge, insights, and experiences with others. I love speaking because it challenges me to grow, learn, and improve. I love speaking because it gives me the opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas, and build relationships. I love speaking because it makes me happy.

I do not speak to impress; I speak to express. I do not speak to show off, I speak to show up. I do not speak to tell; I speak to connect.

You will often find me speaking at user groups and technology events, usually talking about usability, security, and manageability on the Windows platform - after all, I am a Microsoft MVP for Windows and Devices, and I consider Windows a core part of the Microsoft 365 universe - however my passion for embracing good presentation skills, often get me opportunity to share feedback on sessions and talks - if you need feedback, just ask.

Speaking at your event

If you would like me to speak at your user group meeting, your conference or corporate event feel free to reach out - see the Contact page for contact details.

I hope I inspire you and others to discover your own voice and start speaking. Because speaking is not only for speakers; It is for everyone, being an introvert or not.

–Jesper