Listening to David Smith at The Mandrake meeting last night, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, I was impressed by his quiet self-assurance and confidence when expressing the challenges that he faced over the last 12 months.

Talking openly to an audience of around 40 business owners and entrepreneurs, David spoke of the challenges caused by the economic climate and also some of the difficulties he faced in the move from owners Ford to Tata - in particular in understanding their different communication styles. So how did he stay so composed? When asked what kept him awake at night, David rolled several things off the tip of his tongue - the first was his young family!

Could you stay as composed speaking to an intimate audience and answering such personal questions?

In my book, The Confident Manager, I refer to the PTP of communication:
Posture:
The impact this can have on how you feel. Maintain an upright posture for positive impact (both on others and your own brain)
Thoughts:
Keep a check on the negative chatter and focus on positive thoughts. Avoid neutral, wishy-washy language.
Pauses:
Take your time to pause and collect your own thoughts when speaking. This gives the audience a chance to truly hear what you are saying and gives yourself time to focus on what to say next.

David demonstrated these well, something I hope those who heard him will emulate.