Gratitude Focus: Grateful For Learning

Reflection/Why I’m Grateful:

This week has been long, and full. I had three presentations layered on top of the normal rhythm of work at the bank. I also began reviewing several documents on the current state of banking. These reports continue to reinforce a central truth: changes in our industry are accelerating. If we want to stay relevant, we must remain committed to continued investment in technology and innovation.

It struck me, I can’t remember the last time I had three key presentations in the same week. And by “key,” I mean more than just five- or ten-minute updates. These were substantial talks, delivered to distinct audiences.

Back at United Way, during campaign season, I often gave multiple presentations each week, mostly about why people should give. But this week felt different. The biggest takeaway? Every audience is different. And how a message lands is shaped not just by the words, but by the context and the people in the room.

Take Parents as Teachers, for example. It was a small audience, maybe 40 people, but the energy was undeniable. I could feel their engagement throughout.

Then there was the IT group, owners, all from India. I wasn’t sure if my message had landed until the very end, when the love they showed made it clear that it had. Interestingly, the message I gave them was less precise than the one I gave Parents as Teachers. Afterwards, an Indian friend offered some helpful insight: in their culture, it’s often seen as disrespectful to do anything that might distract the speaker. So even when a talk evokes emotion, audience members may remain culturally buttoned up. That gave me real perspective.

Finally, there was AAIM, a much larger, more corporate setting. My message was well-structured, but I missed two key components that would have added more depth. I kept going. But aside from the introduction, I felt almost no energy from the audience. I still don’t know how the message truly landed. And I’m not talking about feedback from the organizers—they were, of course, complimentary. I mean the people. Does that make sense?

One bit of feedback stood out, and I wasn’t quite sure how to take it:

“Well, last year during this segment, a lot of people got up and left. You had everyone’s attention, no one left.”

I found that funny. Another person said,

“Your message was largely aimed at folks who identified with it, but they were all here with colleagues. No one wanted to be the one to say, ‘He’s talking about me.’”

That, too, was an interesting insight.

One of the things I’m really interested in better understanding is the difference between precision and passion in messaging. Which is more important? When you speak from the heart but lack polish, can the message still land with power? And when a message is carefully structured but missing visible emotion, does it resonate as deeply?

Here’s what I’m holding onto: When you stand in front of an audience, large or small, corporate or mission-driven, you’re not just there to share insights. If you’re paying attention, you’re also learning. About communication. About connection. About what truly resonates. You’re getting better, if you let yourself.