To truly play your A-game, you need leverage—and mastering the stage is one of the most powerful tools you can use. The stage isn’t just a platform to speak; it’s where you show the world what you can do, how you think, and what solutions you offer.
Yet, many people avoid it. Instead of stepping up, they retreat into their C-game—listening from the sidelines, staying quiet, and avoiding the spotlight.
Why? Because speaking on stage means being seen, being vulnerable, and risking failure. It’s easier to express opinions anonymously on social media, hiding behind a screen. But here’s the truth: Mastering the stage amplifies your A-game. It’s not just a skill you add to your toolkit—it is part of your A-game.
With the right mindset, the stage can become your greatest asset. If you approach it with a growth mindset, an attitude of service, and a commitment to build your skills, you’ll find that mastering the stage isn’t an impossible feat. You don’t need to be perfect from day one.
You don’t need to walk a thousand miles or master a thousand steps. It’s about taking it one step at a time.
There are specific, vital behaviors you need to adopt to prepare before you present. These aren’t complicated, but they’re essential. Whether it’s crafting your message, honing your delivery, or building the confidence to speak your truth—these behaviors will set you apart. 1
You don’t need titles or positions of power to lead people. Trust me. It’s a profitable profession for me, and I don’t carry any formal titles. What I do have is the ability to communicate my message clearly, concisely, and compellingly.
Mastering the stage isn’t just about being in front of people; it’s about stepping into your power, showcasing your A-game, and leading through your words. Whether you’re presenting solutions, pitching ideas, or sharing your vision, the stage is where you make your mark.
And it all starts with a decision—to stop hiding behind the anonymity of the sidelines and step up to be heard. Because the more you master the stage, the more you amplify your A-game, and the more people will see the solutions you’re offering.
Mastering the stage isn’t just a skill—it’s a pathway to leadership, influence, and ultimately, your best performance.
The Three Crucial Areas You Must Master
You can read plenty of ideas on how to master the stage—on my website, in the 10x Tribe, or from countless sources. But if you’re serious about becoming a true force on stage, I recommend you start by mastering three crucial areas: the person (you), the audience, and your delivery.
In many colleges, professors talk about topics—disconnected from who they are. It often feels like anyone with a textbook could deliver the same lecture. But on the stage, things are different. You are the message. You’re not just delivering information; you’re the embodiment of what’s possible. The solutions you offer, the insights you share—they come from you.
It’s critical that you get clear on who you are and how the solutions you’re presenting can impact others. You’re not just another speaker—you’re the embodiment of the journey from impossible to possible.
Your audience? They are the reason you speak. You’re not there just to express yourself, even though many schools might teach that. You speak for your audience. You don’t deliver something for the sake of it—you’re delivering for someone. When you begin with that mindset, your message transforms from a speech to a service. Your goal is to help them, to give them the tools, the inspiration, and the understanding they need to transform their lives.
The person (you) matters, but equally, so does your audience. You must see them, understand their struggles, their questions, their needs. When you speak with them in mind, you’re not just sharing facts; you’re connecting. Your speech should be designed to resonate with their experiences.
Finally, let’s talk about delivery. Delivery isn’t just about being polished—it’s about removing all the friction that might prevent your message from landing. No unnecessary jargon. No distractions. The aim is clarity, not to wow or impress, but to be one with your audience. When you speak, there should be no barriers between you and the people you’re serving.
Your goal is transformation, not just a transaction. You want your audience to think, feel, and act. That’s why you don’t stop at just having a good message—you work on your delivery until it flows naturally, free from noise or obstacles. Every word, every pause, every gesture should move your audience closer to change.
So, if you’re ready to master the stage, focus on these three areas: yourself, your audience, and your delivery. Because when you get them right, your message won’t just be heard—it will transform.
4 Simple Ways to Get Started This Week
You’ve read about the importance of mastering the stage and the three crucial areas to focus on: yourself, your audience, and your delivery. Now, it’s time to take action. You don’t need to wait for the “perfect” opportunity or big speaking event to get started. You can begin mastering the stage this week—right where you are, at work. Here are four easy steps to get started:
1. Speak Up in Meetings
Don’t wait for a grand stage to practice your skills. Every meeting is an opportunity. Whether you’re sharing an idea, asking a question, or offering feedback, use these moments to practice speaking up with clarity and confidence. Start small—choose one meeting this week where you’ll contribute. Pay attention to how you deliver your message, and make sure it’s clear and concise.
Action for the week: Pick one meeting and commit to speaking up, even if it’s just to share a brief thought.
2. Prepare a Short Presentation for Your Team
Find a way to give a short, informal presentation. Maybe it’s a new project update, a team briefing, or a process improvement you’ve been thinking about. The goal isn’t to impress—it’s to practice structuring your message and delivering it effectively. You don’t need a big stage to develop these skills; a 5-minute talk at work is the perfect place to start.
Action for the week: Offer to present on a small topic in a meeting. Keep it short, focused, and clear.
3. Ask for Feedback
Improving your delivery requires feedback. After speaking up in a meeting or giving a short presentation, ask someone you trust for constructive feedback. Were you clear? Did your message resonate? Was your delivery engaging? Feedback helps you refine your approach and make small adjustments that will improve your confidence and presence.
Action for the week: After you speak in a meeting or give a presentation, ask a colleague for specific feedback on your delivery.
4. Practice with a Colleague
If you’re nervous about speaking in front of a group, start with a smaller audience. Ask a colleague to sit down with you and practice presenting a small idea or project update. This will help you get comfortable expressing yourself while receiving live feedback. It’s a low-pressure way to improve your speaking skills and prepare for bigger opportunities.
Action for the week: Find a colleague and practice delivering a short message or update. Focus on clarity, tone, and engaging your listener.
These four steps are easy, actionable, and can be done at work this week. You don’t need a big stage to start mastering the art of speaking. Begin where you are—meetings, small presentations, and one-on-one practice sessions will set you on the path to mastering the stage, one step at a time.
- Here’s how to find your vital behaviors. ↩︎
