it . Remember , when delivering your message , be sure to control your body language and use it to your advantage . Use your voice as a tool to build credibility with your audience and keep your emotions under control at all times .
Sue Kaiser , assistant superintendent of educational services in the Monrovia School District , reminds herself of centering oneself before speaking , especially about the Dashboard , sharing : “ As we look at these data , we see in the rear-view mirror where we have come from , and this look informs our view through the windshield as we make necessary improvements in our journey forward . Practicing messages with clarity and intentionality is critical .”
The use of bridging phrases
Much like the sentence starts we previously mentioned , here are some specific phrases that are instrumental in shifting conversations , responding to fake news , and hitting a point home . These bridging phrases should be printed out and taped to the side of your computer , so you can regularly refer to them and infuse them in presentations , question / answer sessions , in board meetings , and in emails , particularly with the media .
• “ If you ’ re not going to listen to anything today , listen to this ...”
• “ I think the core issue you are addressing here is ...”
• “ I can ’ t speak to X ’ s motives , but what I can tell you is ...”
• “ At the same time …”
• “ To the contrary ...”
• “ What is really at stake here is ...”
• “ To go a step further ...”
• “ Let me share some facts relevant to that ...”
• “ I respectfully disagree ...”
Skilled presenters and public speakers know the value of bridging phrases . They are key shifters of focus that you need to have handy to increase the professionalism of your presence .
Napa Valley Unified School District Superintendent Patrick Sweeney knows the value of bridging phrases . He reflected , “ I began using phrases like this with difficult audiences . They are invaluable when responding to misinformation and for clarifying key points .”
Final tips
Remember , you ’ ve got this ! Be confident ; don ’ t wing it . Be prepared . Create a framework from which to work . Know your audience and tailor your message to resonate with them . Use notes , not a fully written out script , and keep your remarks organized . Simple is always best , and whenever possible , weave a story into your remarks to carry the message and make the point stick .
The Dashboard can be effectively maneuvered to inform practice in your school and district . The how of its communication is up to you .
ACSA President Lisa Gonzales is assistant superintendent , educational services in Dublin USD , and ACSA President-elect Holly Edds is assistant superintendent , ed services in Orcutt Union SD . Both recently attended the Master Class on Advocacy Communication , hosted by the Alliance for Continuous Improvement . 22 Leadership