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Kathryn Janicek

Avoid Industry Jargon: Engaging Media Interviews and Speeches to Boost Success

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In today’s fast-paced media environment, clarity and relatability are paramount for media and speaker trainers. Yet, many professionals unknowingly sabotage their own success by falling into the trap of using industry-specific jargon and overly formal language during interviews, speeches, or public addresses. This subtle but powerful habit can alienate your audience, making it harder for them to connect with your message.

Real-Life Example of Jargon Pitfalls

In a recent media training session, one of our clients repeatedly used the term “youths” in her sound bites. Instead of saying “young people” or “kids,” she defaulted to a word that isn’t commonly used in everyday conversation. While “youths” might be perfectly acceptable in certain contexts, it sounds stilted and formal in casual speech, creating a barrier between her and her audience.

This example highlights a common mistake many professionals make during media interviews—relying on industry terms or formal language. When speaking to the media, it’s crucial to use the exact words you’d use in a casual conversation. This helps your message resonate more with the audience, making it relatable and easier to understand.

Why Casual Language Matters in Media and Public Speaking

  1. Relatability: Using everyday language makes you more relatable. Your audience is more likely to connect with you if you speak in a way that feels natural and familiar.
  2. Clarity: Jargon and formal language can confuse your audience. Clear, simple language ensures everyone, regardless of background or expertise, understands your message.
  3. Engagement: People tune out when they hear terms they don’t understand. Keeping your language simple and conversational keeps your audience engaged and attentive.

How to Identify and Replace Jargon

  1. Review Your Communication: Look at your recent interviews, speeches, and presentations. Identify any terms or phrases that might be considered jargon.
  2. Get Feedback: Ask colleagues, friends, or even clients to review your communication. They can often spot jargon that you might overlook.
  3. Simplify Your Language: Replace industry terms with simpler, everyday words. For example, instead of saying “utilize,” say “use.” Instead of “leverage,” say “use” or “take advantage of.”
  4. Practice: Practice speaking without using jargon. This can be challenging at first, but with time, it will become more natural.

The Power of Everyday Language in Different Settings

  • Media Interviews: When speaking to the media, use words that your audience would use in daily conversation. This makes your message more accessible and engaging.
  • Investor Pitches: Investors want to understand your vision quickly and clearly. Avoiding jargon helps you communicate your ideas more effectively, increasing your chances of securing funding.
  • Board Meetings: Even in formal settings like board meetings, using clear and simple language can enhance understanding and decision-making.
  • Speeches: Whether addressing a large audience or a small group, using everyday language in speeches makes your message more relatable and memorable. Avoiding jargon helps your audience stay engaged and ensures that your points are easily understood.

Conclusion: Clear and Relatable Communication

Effective communication is about making connections and ensuring that your message is understood. By avoiding industry jargon and using everyday language, you make your communication clearer, more relatable, and more impactful.

Next time you prepare for an interview, a presentation, or a public address, think about the words you’re using. Strive to speak as if you were having a conversation with a friend. This approach will not only help you connect with your audience but also enhance your overall communication effectiveness.

Let’s use everyday language to make our communication clear, relatable, and effective. If you need help refining your communication style or preparing for your next media interview, reach out to us at Janicek Performance Group. We’re here to help you bring your fully confident, expert self to every stage.

Why Your Spokespeople Might Be Tanking Your Brand – And How to Fix It

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CEOs often don’t know how their employees represent their brand out in the wild.

They’re not recording their spokespeople and giving feedback on their messaging.

This oversight can lead to a significant issue we see all too often: condescension and arrogance in communicating messages.

These two huge turnoffs can alienate audiences and damage your brand’s reputation. Possibly worse, your spokespeople may be treating their teams inside your company the same way.

What you say and how you make your team feel greatly impacts their output.

Lessons from a Celebrity Chef Food Fest

I attended the Nassau Paradise Island Food and Wine Festival this year, enjoying fantastic food and unexpectedly gaining valuable public speaking insights. Here are three crucial lessons I learned:

1. It’s About the Team, Not the “Me”

During the event, a celebrity chef brought his team to the dining room before the first course to acknowledge their hard work. It seemed like a great move, right? Unfortunately, he then undermined their work and creativity in front of the audience. He was particularly condescending towards a female pastry chef, explaining her mistake and how he fixed it. Instead, he should have highlighted specific team members’ contributions and celebrated their successes.

Key Takeaway:

When representing your brand, it’s essential to uplift and support your team. Publicly acknowledging their hard work and creativity builds trust and respect, both within the team and with your audience. Condescension and arrogance, on the other hand, can erode that trust and harm your brand’s image with audiences. I was completely turned off.

2. Respect the Stage (and the Names!)

The festival was a prime opportunity for brands, but the top organizer fumbled the pronunciations of sponsor names. This lack of respect and preparation was glaring. Taking the time to learn and correctly pronounce names is crucial. It ensures that the brand (and you) looks good to the audience. These brands pay top dollar for sponsorship, so your spokesperson should mention them correctly. Get this right. 

Key Takeaway:

Prepare, prepare, prepare. Preparation and respect go a long way in public speaking. Mispronouncing names or appearing unprepared can reflect poorly on you and your brand. Always ensure you’re well-prepared and respectful, especially when acknowledging sponsors and partners.

3. Don’t Forget the Fans!

During Martha Stewart’s garden party at the festival, she vanished without meeting fans, leaving those who paid top dollar disappointed. While you might not be Martha, people still spend their time and money to hear you. The least you can do is give them your time in return. Stick around for a Q&A or take a few photos. 

Key Takeaway:

Engage with your audience. Work the room. I’ve coached CEOs who just want to show up, get on stage, and then disappear. People are there to meet you. You need to build connections. Your presence and willingness to interact with them can leave a lasting positive impression. Always aim to under-promise and over-deliver, exceeding their expectations.

How your spokespeople represent your brand in public can make or break your company’s image. Arrogance and condescension are major turnoffs that can damage your brand’s reputation. By focusing on team acknowledgment, respect, preparation, and audience engagement, you can ensure your brand is represented in the best light possible.

If you’re looking to improve your public speaking and media presence, let’s have a conversation about what success looks like to you. At Janicek Performance Group, we help you bring your fully confident, expert self to the stage. Reach out today and transform how you represent your brand.

How To Nail Down Your Story

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Recently, I spoke at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). At our media training workshop, we had over a dozen surgeons—dedicated professionals and perfectionists. These surgeons strive for excellence in everything. That’s great, and it can be crippling when you need to talk to your audience and connect with them. 

When it comes to media interviews and public speaking, it’s not just about perfection or having all the facts. It’s about telling your story in a way that captivates and engages your audience.

Lean into Your Executive Presence

First, take control of your executive presence with the goal of inspiring confidence in others. Think about this from a patient’s perspective. As a patient, I want to have confidence in the person taking care of me. I want to know you have my back.

Executive presence is about composure. Do you make people feel calm? Do you look like you’re in control of your body language, your breathing, and your posture? It’s also about your character.

Your Achievements Don’t Speak for Themselves

Many physicians don’t see themselves as executives. Despite having numerous degrees and qualifications, they often assume that their achievements speak for themselves. A few months ago, I explained to a client the importance of appearance. She was puzzled at first, not seeing the connection. She was qualified for the job—why would I even bring up her outfit or hairstyle?

I’m not suggesting you need to look like a news anchor. But when you’re on camera, your appearance can evoke trust. Media interactions are performative; it’s not just about your credentials. First impressions matter. Your audience forms an opinion the moment they see you, and then it’s your chance to captivate them with your 60-second elevator pitch.

This concept applies not just to media interviews but also to other professional opportunities, like applying for medical awards, department head positions, and prestigious fellowships. When you walk into an interview or step onto a stage, you need to project confidence and credibility. It’s about showcasing the whole package: your expertise, your professionalism, and your executive presence. Your story, combined with your polished appearance and demeanor, can make you memorable and compelling, setting you apart from others with similar qualifications.

Your Story Completes Your Resume

Your resume may be impressive, but it’s your story that will make you stand out. You’re probably great at your job. Or maybe you’re at the top of your class. But is that always enough?

A lot of students and clients come to us with the same question: “Why haven’t I gotten…?” Residency, fellowship—the thing they want.

I tell them to take a step back. Go back and remember what attracted you to medicine (or whatever industry you’re in). What is the story you can tell?

That way, when you interview for something, someone will remember you five days later and say, “I’m going to hire this person.” “I want her to do the presentation.” “I want him to speak at the conference.”

How to Nail Down Your Story

  • Focus on Your Story and HOW You Tell It: Crafting a compelling narrative is more than just recounting your experiences; it’s about how you present them. Your story should be engaging and memorable, drawing people in and making them want to know more about you.
  • Reflect on Your Journey: What inspired you to pursue your profession? Think about the challenges you’ve overcome and the defining moments along your path. These experiences not only shape who you are but also make your story unique.
  • What Makes YOU DIFFERENT?: Identify what sets you apart from others in your field. What unique perspectives or experiences do you bring to the table? Highlight these aspects to showcase your individuality and make a lasting impression.
  • Connect with Your Audience: Consider who you’re speaking to, whether it’s patients, colleagues, or an interview panel. Tailor your story to resonate with them. What parts of your journey will they find most compelling or relatable?
  • Practice Your Delivery: Like any skill, storytelling improves with practice. Rehearse your story to ensure it flows naturally and confidently. Pay attention to your tone, body language, and pacing to keep your audience engaged.
  • Stand Out in a Crowd: After meeting 10-15 other people, what will make someone remember you? It’s the personal touch in your story, the emotion you convey, and the authenticity you bring to the conversation. Your story, when well-told, can leave a lasting impression that goes beyond your qualifications and achievements.

 

Your brand isn’t just what you look like on social media, it’s also the stories you tell when you walk into a room. The way you present yourself captivates the audience, whether it’s a patient or a room full of colleagues.

Conclusion

What is the story you tell that will allow you to land the thing you really want? What is your unique connection?

Listen to the entire podcast here for more practical guidance on adapting to your audience, looking polished, and managing your inner dialogue to effectively promote your personal brand and your practice.

Reach out to us today, and let us help you tell your story, which will complete your resume and give you executive presence.

The Jitters: How Too Much Coffee Can Sabotage Your Presentation

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I get it—I’m a coffee person, too!

Coffee is our trusty sidekick, ready to kickstart our day.

A warm cup of coffee (with my chocolate collagen) nestled between my hands is my happy place.

In the world of leadership, public speaking, running meetings, and media interviews – that extra cup can turn us from cool and collected into jittery and distracted.

Here’s a behind-the-scenes video from a recent client training.

One of the salespeople we were training was all over the place—hands and legs shaking, voice trembling. The culprit? Way too much caffeine.

While a little java can sharpen your focus, too much can turn you into a human vibration machine, distracting your audience from your stellar message.

You might think an extra cup will give you the edge before a big meeting or speaking gig, but it might actually trip you up. Here’s how to keep your cool and your coffee consumption in check:

  1. Keep It Cool: Stick to one or two cups and cut off caffeine a few hours before your presentation.

  2. Hydrate Like a Boss: Water is your best friend. It keeps you balanced and less jittery. Try to drink at least 16 ounces of water before that first cup of coffee in the morning. See how long you can wait to hit the fresh brew.

  3. Chill Out: A quick walk or some deep breathing can calm those nerves way better than Nespresso or Starbucks.

Ready to take the stage like a pro? By keeping your caffeine in check, you’ll be more focused, confident, and ready to wow your audience.

Remember, you want your message to shine, not your jitters. Next time you’re gearing up for a big talk, skip that extra cup and channel your best, most centered self.

You’ve got this!

You’ve worked too hard to let this happen

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Go From Worried To WOW!

I met with an executive at a healthcare company this week.

She waited to go out for an opportunity – and when she got there… she realized: “What the he#$ was I waiting so long for?”

Have you been there?

You thought you weren’t ready for something… and then when you did it, you realized – those folks weren’t any smarter than you. They just jumped before you did.

Do you ever feel like public speaking might hold you back from that big opportunity? 

You’re not alone. 

Most people, even high-achieving professionals, struggle with public speaking.

This is precisely what we at Janicek Performance Group tackle in our work.

Feeling Overwhelmed and Underprepared?

Acknowledge that facing a big presentation, board meeting, or media interview IS nerve-wracking. 

You might worry about forgetting your points, being judged, or blowing the whole thing.

These feelings are completely normal! 

Public speaking can be incredibly exposing, and without proper preparation, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

How We Help:

  • Craft a Powerful Message: We’ll help you develop a clear, concise, and impactful message that resonates with your audience.
  • Deliver with Confidence: Through coaching, you’ll gain the skills and techniques to present with poise and authority, even in high-pressure situations.
  • Banish Anxiety: We’ll help you manage your nerves and replace them with confidence and control.

Ready to Take the Stage?

If you’re ready to conquer public speaking and step confidently into the spotlight, schedule a call with us today. 

Together, we can discuss your goals and develop a personalized plan to help you become the powerful and impactful speaker you know you can be.

How to Set Up for an Online Meeting or Presentation While Traveling

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In today’s dynamic work environment, the ability to conduct professional and impactful Zoom meetings and presentations from ANYWHERE is an asset.

It’s June, and many people are scattered across the globe on school breaks and summer vacations. It’s a real concern to make sure you have a good place that looks professional when you’re on the road.

People ask us all the time, “What is the best way to set up for a high-stakes meeting when you’re not in your office?”

Whether you’re on the road, staying in a hotel or Airbnb, or grabbing a quick conference room, you CAN maintain a professional appearance and deliver clear communication.

Here’s how to land the best online presentation when you’re away from your office.

1. Ensuring Good Video Quality

Camera Quality

A high-quality camera is crucial for presenting yourself professionally. While most laptops have built-in cameras, their quality isn’t the best.

Investing in an external camera significantly improves your video quality. You will actually look like YOU. (I recommend this external camera for its excellent resolution and ease of use.)

Camera Position

The positioning of your camera is equally important. To create a natural and professional appearance, your camera should be at eye level. 

This helps maintain eye contact and avoids the unflattering angles from a camera positioned too low.

A simple trick is to use stacked books or a portable laptop stand to elevate your computer to the right height.

2. Ensuring Good Audio Quality

Quiet Space

Good audio quality starts with choosing a quiet location. 

If you’re in a hotel, pick a room away from busy areas like the lobby or bar. If you’re in a shared office or conference room, try to find a space with minimal background noise. 

Always test your audio before the meeting to ensure your voice is clear and free from echoes or background disturbances.

Zoom also has a really great built-in feature for silencing background noise, which you can turn on in your settings.

Using a Quality Microphone

Built-in microphones can pick up a lot of ambient noise. If you have a dedicated microphone or a good pair of headphones with a mic, use them to ensure your voice comes through loud and clear.

3. Creating a Professional Background

Neutral Background

Your background should be professional and free of distractions. 

A blank wall is ideal. If that’s not possible, aim for a simple, uncluttered background. You want your audience to focus on you, not what’s happening behind you.

By following these tips, you’ll be prepared, relaxed, and ready to go, no matter where you are. 

The key is preparation – having the right equipment, setting up your space thoughtfully, and testing everything beforehand. 

This way, you can maintain the same level of professionalism you would in your office, even when you’re on the move. 

Three Steps to Build Big Fans and Gain Loyal Customers When You Make a Mistake

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Lessons Learned from a Missing Rug

As a coach, I often share my real-life experiences to help drive home important lessons. 

Today’s story is about my recent encounter with a company that turned into a lesson on how to keep your customers happy – even when things go wrong.

The Rug

My dog – bless her furry soul, decided a living room redesign was in order.

I needed a new rug, and fast, so I hopped online and ordered one from rugs.com 

Easy. Simple. Right? 

The rug never arrived. 

Lost in Delivery

Three days after it was supposed to arrive, I reached out to customer service.

They offered a simple “let’s try again” without explanation or apology. 

A week later … 

The rug was still MIA.

How To Do It Right

The second call was the same experience. Except this time, the “try again” was a mistake. 

This whole ordeal is a crash course in what NOT to do in customer service. 

Here’s how you can avoid it:

  1. Apologize with Heart: A sincere apology is powerful. Acknowledge the mistake, show you understand their frustration and express genuine regret.
  1. Action Speaks Louder: Don’t just say you’ll fix it – explain the steps you’re taking. Be transparent, set clear expectations, and keep them updated every step of the way.
  1. Offer a Sweetener: Show your appreciation for their patience with a discount, free shipping, or a bonus item. It shows that you value their business and want to make things right.

Remember, every interaction is a chance to build trust. Following these tips, you can turn a negative into a positive, leaving your customers feeling valued and happy. 

Happy customers are loyal customers, and that’s the kind of sales magic you want!

Is your business ready to turn customer frustrations into opportunities for loyalty? Janicek Performance Group can help train your team on the communication standards needed for exceptional customer service, especially when things go wrong.

PS: If you need quick help before a big or small presentation… we’re here for you.

How Passion Inspires Teams and Moves Customers to Buy from You

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How to Be a Leader Who Inspires Action

Passion is contagious.

And without it, you can’t inspire internally or externally.

When a leader brings genuine enthusiasm and heart to the table, it changes everything. 

Even a brilliant CEO with a strong track record can struggle to motivate if they come across as flat or uninspiring.

Employees crave more than just strategy and direction from their leaders. 

They want to FEEL something from their leaders. They want to believe in the company and trust the person leading is genuinely invested in their success.

In a few minutes, I’ll explain how to show passion to significantly impact the company’s culture, market perception, and overall success. 

First, here are a few reasons why leaders should focus on igniting their passion and sharing it with their teams and external stakeholders:

Inspiring Employees

Passionate leadership is infectious. When executives show enthusiasm and commitment to the product, it can inspire employees at all levels to share the same excitement and dedication. This can increase morale, higher productivity, and a stronger sense of purpose among the workforce.

Building Credibility

Demonstrating a genuine passion for the product helps build credibility and trust with both internal teams and external stakeholders. When executives are genuinely enthusiastic about what they are promoting, it reassures stakeholders that the product is valuable and worth their investment or attention.

Customer Trust and Loyalty

Customers are likelier to trust and remain loyal to a brand if they see its leaders are passionate about the product. This enthusiasm can translate into more compelling marketing messages and stronger customer relationships, as people tend to be drawn to brands that show genuine commitment to their offerings.

Driving Innovation

Passionate executives are often more invested in the success of their products and more likely to drive innovation. Their enthusiasm can encourage creative thinking and a willingness to take risks, leading to groundbreaking advancements and a competitive edge in the market.

Differentiation in the Market

Passion can be a differentiator in a highly competitive market. When executives publicly display their passion for the product, it can set the company apart from competitors who may not exhibit the same level of commitment. This can be particularly important in markets where products and services are similar and an emotional connection with the brand becomes a key differentiator.

Enhancing Brand Image

Passionate leadership contributes to a positive brand image. Companies led by enthusiastic and committed executives are often seen as more dynamic, innovative, and customer-focused. This can enhance the company’s overall reputation and attract top talent, investors, and customers.

Navigating Challenges

Passion can be a critical factor in navigating through challenges and setbacks. When executives are passionate about their product, they’re more likely to persevere through tough times and inspire their teams to do the same. This resilience can be crucial for long-term success and sustainability.

An executive’s visible passion for their product can have far-reaching positive impacts on the company’s culture, market position, and overall success.

How do you show your passion?

Still excited about your mission and company but don’t know how to start showing your passion so you can inspire? Here are a few easy ways to pull it off:

Engaging Storytelling

  • Share personal stories and experiences highlighting your journey with the product or company.
  • Use anecdotes in speeches and presentations that demonstrate commitment and enthusiasm.

Active Participation

  • Get involved in product development meetings and brainstorming sessions.
  • Participate in customer feedback sessions and demonstrate a willingness to understand and address customer needs.

Visible Leadership

  • Be present at major company events, product launches, and trade shows.
  • Take the lead in major company initiatives and be the face of the company in public forums.

Personal Endorsement

  • Use the product personally and share authentic experiences about its benefits.
  • Create content (like videos or blogs) showcasing how the product fits into their daily life or work.

Public Speaking and Media Engagement

  • Speak passionately about the product in interviews, press releases, and public appearances.
  • Participate in industry panels and discussions highlighting the product’s strengths and future potential.

Transparent Communication

  • Regularly communicate with employees, stakeholders, and customers through newsletters, blogs, or social media.
  • Share the company’s vision, goals, and progress enthusiastically and clearly.

Empowering Employees

  • Recognize and celebrate the contributions of employees who are passionate about the product.
  • Create platforms for employees to share their ideas and innovations and actively participate in these discussions.

Customer Engagement

  • Interact with customers directly through social media, forums, or customer events.
  • Show genuine interest in customer feedback and demonstrate how it influences product development.

Continuous Learning and Sharing

  • Stay updated with industry trends and advancements and share this knowledge with the team.
  • Attend industry conferences and bring back insights that can be applied to improve the product.

Cultivating a Passionate Culture

  • Foster a company culture that values innovation, creativity, and enthusiasm.
  • Lead by example, showing dedication and a positive attitude towards challenges and opportunities.

Innovative Vision

  • Articulate a clear and exciting vision for the future of the product and the company.
  • Share the long-term goals and how the current efforts are paving the way towards achieving them.

By consistently demonstrating passion through these actions, leaders can effectively inspire and motivate their team, build stronger customer connections, and enhance the company’s overall reputation and success.

Remember, passion is POWERFUL. 

You can become a leader who motivates, inspires, and empowers your team to achieve great things.

Want to see if you come across as passionate? We’ll give you honest feedback – we’re here for you.

Steal Back Your Time: Creating Boundaries So You Can Be More Present 

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Stop Feeling Rushed – Your Audience Can Tell

If you were to open your calendar right now, how much time would you have for yourself?

Are you rushing from meeting to meeting to meeting to have conversations with your team, deliver presentations, or be interviewed by the media?

As a leader, you’re constantly juggling meetings, calls, and unexpected crises. You’re just trying to keep up, and before you know it, a big presentation is staring you down, and you haven’t had a moment to BREATHE – let alone prepare.

Sound familiar? 

Chances are, it shows in your message if you’re struggling to keep up with a jam-packed calendar and never have a moment to gather your thoughts.

When you don’t have time to prepare, that’s when you sound exasperated and fill with all kinds of  “ums” and “uhs” (filler words).

And it’s going to appear as if they weren’t worth the time to plan.

We know this isn’t how you feel as a leader.

And … you’re not alone. 

At Janicek Performance Group, we coach C-Suite executives and leaders with a simple but powerful tip for regaining control of their schedules: steal your time.

Steal it before someone steals it from you!

The key is to be PROACTIVE. When you’re booked for a presentation or meeting, block out dedicated time in your calendar to prepare and debrief. 

Here’s how you’ll do it:

Block Your Calendar

When you’re booked for a presentation, carve out dedicated prep time. Treat it like any other important meeting – protect it fiercely. 

At the beginning, start small: aim for 30 minutes the day before, another 30 minutes the morning of, and block 15 minutes right before to shield yourself from last-minute firefighting.

Focus Before the Frenzy

Use your stolen time wisely. Gather your thoughts, organize your material, and rehearse your delivery. This helps you walk into the room confident, clear-headed, and not scrambling for words.

Debrief After You Deliver

You’ll like some things you did – and not like other aspects. Document quickly. You’re going to forget everything you learned faster than you think. Don’t lose those thoughts in the whirlwind after.

Take a quick 5 minutes with your team to reflect. Discuss what worked well and what could be improved for the next time.

Taking control of your schedule and prioritizing focused preparation might seem selfish.

But it’s not.

Shouldn’t you be putting you and your team first? 

Investing this time in yourself is a strategic investment in your leadership.

A well-prepared leader is a CONFIDENT leader, and a confident leader inspires and motivates their team. You’ll be able to deliver clear presentations, answer questions thoughtfully, and navigate unexpected situations.

This is a MUST for you to be an effective leader. Start taking back control.

Take control of your schedule, prioritize focused preparation, and show up as the leader your team DESERVES.

Our team is here for you when you need support.

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