EXTENSION AGENT AS PERFORMER
Early Career Development
Lee Stivers
Retired
United States
Portland
Abstract
As Extension agents we routinely give presentations to audiences, act as moderators and facilitators at meetings, make pitches to funders, appear on radio, and communicate to groups in diverse settings. Often our training in public speaking, if we ever got any, emphasized a formal and academic style that may not fully engage our audiences. Extension agents rarely think of themselves as performers, but effective presenters do use performance skills to connect with their audiences so that their message is heard. In this session I will share performance lessons I have learned through a semi-serious acoustic music hobby, and how they have made me a more effective Extension agent. These include stage-tested ways to find your own voice, make the material work for you, and sincerely connect with the audience. Musical talent is not a pre-requisite for session participation; however, you may leave being more in touch with your inner rock star.
Authors: Young, L.
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Young, L. County Extension Director, Penn State Cooperative Extension, Washington County, Pennsylvania, 15301