Episode #138: Senior Executives In A Public Speaking Competition Was So Revealing

Why Do Even Seasoned Executives Struggle in High-Stakes Presentations?

In many 日本企業 (Japanese companies) and 外資系企業 (multinational companies), senior leaders regularly brief teams and stakeholders. Yet, when placed in a public, competitive setting—such as board elections, investor meetings, or organizational town halls—many executives deliver surprisingly weak performances.

The core issue is lack of preparation, not lack of experience. At a recent non-profit board vote, highly accomplished leaders were given two minutes to make their case. Despite decades spent in global roles across Tokyo, Europe, and the U.S., most failed to communicate convincingly.
Mini-Summary: Seniority does not guarantee communication excellence; preparation does.

1. Self-Centered Messaging Instead of Audience-Centered Value

Most speakers talked about their résumés and corporate status, not about what the audience needed or expected.
Executives overlooked questions such as:

• What do members expect from a board representative?

• What value must I demonstrate within two minutes?

A few minutes of planning could have identified hot-button concerns and shaped messages that resonated.
Mini-Summary: High-impact communication begins with understanding the audience’s needs, not showcasing one’s credentials.

2. Poor Prioritization and Lack of Rehearsal

With only two minutes available, messages must be sharply pruned and rehearsed. Instead, leaders overloaded their time with loosely connected points, rushing or confusing listeners.
Mini-Summary: In short-format speaking, disciplined focus and rehearsal win.

3. Weak Delivery: No Eye Contact, No Energy, No Presence

Many executives spoke in monotone, without emphasizing key words or varying vocal strength. Some even kept their hands behind their backs—triggering subconscious mistrust, as humans instinctively distrust hidden hands.

Effective delivery requires:

• Clear, sustained eye contact (6 seconds per person can engage 20+ audience members)

• Vocal dynamics that highlight important ideas

• Visible, intentional gestures to increase trust and impact

Mini-Summary: Delivery skills—eye contact, voice, and gestures—are essential for authority and trust.

1. Craft an Audience-Driven Message

Frame your message around:

• What the audience cares about

• How your experience and attributes directly support their interests

• A concise list of high-impact points

2. Rehearse for Precision

Practice until your message comfortably fits the time limit and flows smoothly.

3. Command the Room

Break through lingering impressions from previous speakers by:

• Connecting with individuals through extended eye contact

• Using gestures that reinforce your words

• Delivering with confident vocal modulation

Mini-Summary: Leaders stand out by being relevant, prepared, and engaging—regardless of their seniority.

Ineffective two-minute presentations may look minor, but in reality they:

• Damage personal brand

• Weaken leadership credibility

• Reflect poorly on the company

• Undermine influence in critical decisions

Corporate leaders must master professional presentations—not by nature, but through training, practice, and coaching.
This is where Dale Carnegie’s 100+ years of global expertise and 60+ years in Tokyo provide unmatched support.

Mini-Summary: Communication failures carry real reputational risk; mastery protects leaders and companies.

• Even senior leaders underperform without preparation, structure, and rehearsal.

• Audience-centric communication beats résumé-centric messaging every time.

• Eye contact, vocal modulation, and visible gestures dramatically increase executive presence.

• Dale Carnegie’s proven methods help leaders communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact in Japan’s unique business landscape.

Founded in the U.S. in 1912, Dale Carnegie Training has supported individuals and companies worldwide for over a century in leadership, sales, presentation, executive coaching, and DEI. Our Tokyo office, established in 1963, has been empowering both Japanese and multinational corporate clients ever since.