Inspirational Women Of the Speaking Circuit: Precious L Williams of Perfect Pitch Group On The Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Speaker

An Interview With Doug Noll

Practice Your Craft: Regardless of your level of experience, ongoing practice is essential. Over my 28 years in the field, I’ve come to understand that audiences and viewpoints evolve. The one constant is my commitment to practice. I continue to create PowerPoints, even if I never use them. Why? Because it demonstrates to conference organizers, event planners, and hosts just how serious and dedicated I am. It offers them a roadmap of my presentation and instills confidence in their decision to trust me with their event. This level of preparation ensures that I’m ready to deliver a flawless performance, whether live on stage or in a video format.

As a part of our series about Inspirational Women of the Speaking Circuit, I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Precious L. Williams

Precious L. Williams is a 13-time national elevator pitch champion and a bestselling author. She was the Pitch Coach on the first season America’s Real Deal and spokesperson for Mastercard. Besides helping women entrepreneurs and business leaders, she is also a TOP corporate sales trainer, helping sales teams to create killer communication skills, craft messaging and understand how to pitch and build sales programs. Precious is a world-class speaker/trainer for global brands including BMW, Google, LinkedIn, Microsoft, Harvard University, Columbia University, Spelman College, Intuit Quickbooks, ASI, Yelp, and more. As an international professional speaker, she is also hired to Keynote global conferences, summits, and events.

Thank you so much for doing this with us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us the story of how you grew up?

I grew up in the inner city of St. Louis, Missouri, with both of my parents. From the time I was born, I felt like an unwanted child. The world outside my window was nothing but poverty and lack. Inside our home was filled with pain, anger, and bitterness. I harbored a dream within me, believing I was destined for greatness, determined to surpass the limitations my mother, father, and family imposed on me. I clung to that dream, envisioning myself gracing billboards in Times Square and hosting talk shows. Despite the grim reality around me, in my vision, I danced, knowing it would come to pass. That was my childhood.

Can you share a story with us about what brought you to this specific career path?

What brought me specifically to speaking was a pivotal moment at my grandparents’ house when I was 15. My grandmother would tell me everyday that I possessed a unique gift for speech and connection. With my grandparents, I found love, nurturing, and a safe haven. They encouraged me to speak, even making me do affirmations. My grandmother helped strip away the pain, torture, and hate of a little 15-year-old.

At 16, the principal of my high school asked me to speak at an event, which turned out to be before the mayor of St. Louis. Not knowing how to compose a speech, my English teachers lent their support. It was my grandmother who drove me to that event. Standing before the audience, I was astonished that as soon as I began, the words flowed naturally and effortlessly. I delivered a performance that earned a resounding standing ovation. It was an unforgettable moment. This success paved the way for my next speaking engagement, this time before the governor of Missouri.

From a background of feeling unwanted and unloved, I transitioned to a world where politicians eagerly listened to me speak. This journey propelled me to address a range of issues across the state of Missouri, from education to matters concerning St. Louis public schools. I began to realize the depth of my capabilities, igniting the stage every time I got on it.

Can you tell us the most interesting story that happened to you since you began your career?

The standout moment for me, even to this day, was the experience of appearing on Shark Tank. I vividly remember walking through those iconic doors in my low-cut canary yellow peplum dress. Here I was, a full-figured diva with an extreme Afro and striking makeup, conscious of the dual audience I was addressing — the Sharks and the general public tuning in. I couldn’t help but wonder what their reaction would be.

As the cameras rolled and I took my position, it felt like I was giving a performance of a lifetime, like I was standing at the Parthenon, delivering a message to a higher creator. I watched their eyes widen in amazement, and I hadn’t even delved into the business details yet. When I completed the initial part of my pitch, there was a noticeable sense of breathlessness in the room. Then, I dropped that iconic line from Beyonce’s song “Formation,” and when my fierce divas came in, it was a game-changer. They were witnessing something entirely new and electrifying.

In that moment, I validated the love and support my grandmother showered upon me as a teenage girl, who is her namesake. Here I stood before billionaires who heard countless pitches, and yet, bent them to my will through the power of communication. I’ll never forget that for the rest of my life.

Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?

One of the most memorable moments was when I spoke at BMW. It marked four years to the day since I walked out from a period of darkness. I remember wanting to go last, observing the pitches that came before me, and sensing the energy behind the scenes. When I stepped onto that stage, the magnitude of the moment momentarily overwhelmed me and my mind went blank. This was a German-based luxury car company, and the faces in the audience had never encountered me before. It was a surreal realization that four years prior, I could never have envisioned this life. What had brought me onto that stage was the very force that had lifted me out of poverty, out of the hood, and into college and law school. Although my mind went momentarily blank, I relied on muscle memory this time. I had absorbed every speech before me, clarifying what I wouldn’t say. Little did I know, I was setting the stage for people to queue up for hours, eager to grab a copy of my book after being captivated by that one-minute pitch.

The invaluable lesson I took away from that experience was the power of perfect practice leading to perfect performance. Moreover, the biggest lesson is, the world is indeed a stage, and one must be prepared to give their best performance at any given moment.

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story about that?

When it comes to gratitude, I could talk endlessly about one person, and that would be my grandmother. But I also want to take a moment to acknowledge a musical genius who continues to inspire me, even though he’s no longer with us. Michael Jackson remains a towering figure in my eyes, not just for his artistry, but for his unwavering commitment to excellence. No matter what was going on, he would put on a spectacular show. It’s been a long time since he passed, and yet, children still know his name. If I had the chance to sit down for dinner with someone, I’d always circle back to my grandmother and say, “When I was a little girl, you knew I was going to be special. I watched the great when the greatest one was sitting right beside me holding my hand through the darkest times.” So, while I’d cherish the opportunity to have dinner with her, I’d also want to extend my thanks to Michael Jackson. Because that’s exactly how I feel when I step onto that stage — I’m going to give it my all, no matter what.

You have been blessed with great success in a career path that can be challenging and intimidating. Do you have any words of advice for others who may want to embark on this career path, but seem daunted by the prospect of failure?

Absolutely. I believe any industry can seem daunting when you consider the journey to the top. Here are a few pieces of advice for those looking to embark on this path, or any challenging career for that matter:

Firstly, surround yourself with those who celebrate you, not just tolerate you. Seek out a community that supports and challenges you to be your best self. They recognize your true potential.

Secondly, remember that mastering your craft takes time and dedication. Speaking, training, and teaching are not microwave tasks. You have to invest not just time, but also money and resources into honing your skills.

Thirdly, understand why someone would choose you for anything. What sets you apart? Have at least 150 reasons why someone would want to book, hire, or refer you. Write them down, and commit to them.

Fourth, put yourself out there consistently. Even if society suggests being modest, sometimes you need to be your own biggest advocate. If no one else is singing your praises, don’t hesitate to do it yourself.

Lastly, never be afraid of showcasing your true prowess. You can observe from the sidelines, let them think you’re a novice. And when you step up to the microphone, give it your all. Leave a mark that reminds them never to underestimate your gift and talent. Remember, your secret weapon is that you know them, but they don’t know you yet.

What drives you to get up everyday and give your talks? What is the main empowering message that you aim to share with the world?

The driving force that gets me up every day to deliver talks, conduct trainings, give speeches, and lead master classes is the profound sense of a second chance. In this second chapter, I have the opportunity to prove to myself that my creator had a purpose for my life long before anyone else formed an opinion. I get to showcase what true talent, skills, and abilities really look like, which is far from the glitz of Hollywood.

Every morning, I rise with the intention of showing every woman, especially those of a certain age, that the best is truly yet to come. Moreover, I am determined to honor and uplift my grandmother’s name and my own. Let me tell you, Precious Williams — you’re going to remember that name. There’s a legendary wrestler known as The Undertaker, and he’s called “a legend among legends.” That’s precisely what I aspire to be in the world of speaking and training. And I’ve achieved it, just as in the iconic song by Ol’ Blue Eyes, I did it MY WAY.

Can you share with our readers a few of your most important tips about how to be an effective and empowering speaker? Can you please share some examples or stories?

Firstly, distinguish between being a public speaker and a professional speaker. A public speaker doesn’t receive payment, whereas a professional speaker does. This became clear to me when I found myself frequently asked to speak for free, despite identifying as a professional speaker. It took someone pointing out to me, “No, you’re considered a public speaker until you start getting paid.” When you get paid, that means you’re a professional speaker.

As you know, many people are terrified of speaking in public. Can you give some of your advice about how to overcome this fear?

Here are a couple of my tips for overcoming the fear of public speaking:

Firstly, write out your speech and practice it in front of a mirror in the bathroom. Pay attention to the words that ignite passion in you. Practice this process repeatedly, around 10, 20, or even 30 times.

Secondly, go to a public place like a coffee shop and ask strangers to listen to you speak and share their thoughts. Avoid asking family or friends, as they might tell you what they heard rather than what you want them to hear.

Third, when you’re at the actual event, take the time to meet people in person. Build a rapport and establish a connection. This way, when you step onto the stage, you’ll be looking at friendly, welcoming faces. Having already made a positive impression, they’ll be eager to see you succeed. If you become emotional, they’ll be right there with you because you’ve made them a priority.

Remember, give the audience what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear. By showing that you genuinely care and have already made an impact, you’ll have already connected with them before even stepping onto the stage.

Ok, thank you for all that. Here is the main question of our interview. What are your “5 Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Public Speaker?”

Here are my top five lessons for being a highly effective public speaker:

1 . Discover and Know Your Niche: It’s important to identify and deeply understand your area of expertise. Personally, mine revolves around pitching and presentations. It’s essential to avoid being perceived as a generalist. Determine what you’re truly passionate about, something you could discuss endlessly. Focus on it and harness it as your unique craft. My journey into pitching began out of necessity. Faced with financial constraints and a lack of support, I took a leap of faith and pitched my business. To my astonishment, this bold move not only landed me on television but also led to securing $750,000 for my company. It was the experience that solidified pitching as my niche. This was a discovery I never anticipated. Over the past 13 years, I’ve demonstrated that not only are people listening, but they’ve been listening attentively for a long time.

2 . Learn From the Greats: Learning from accomplished speakers is a crucial part of honing your own skills. One great resource for studying effective presentations is TED talks, which cover a wide range of subjects. How would you handle the speech? What would you have said that’s different? By dissecting these talks, you’ll gain insights into how different approaches can engage and captivate an audience and help you refine your own unique style and approach.

3 . Understand the Power of Pitching: Pitching is more than self-promotion; it’s about creating genuine interest and connection with your audience. To truly excel in this area, you must be willing to put yourself out there consistently, both in person and on social media. It’s not about pushing products or services, but rather showcasing the human side and the exceptional talent you possess in speaking. It’s you and your unique voice that truly make the impact.

4 . Don’t Be Afraid to Be Controversial: Sometimes, going against the grain and challenging norms is essential. This lesson became evident when I was crafting my first book, “Bad Bitches and Power Pitches,” specifically tailored for women entrepreneurs and speakers. For three years, I encountered skepticism about the title, with concerns that the title wasn’t “respectable”. However, I saw parallels in successful books like “You’re a Badass at Making Money” and “Go the F**k to Sleep,” and recognized that my approach was equally valid. It was a bold statement that ultimately reflected my identity as a resilient black woman with unwavering determination. This title was a pitch in and of itself. When I released the book, I did so with confidence, knowing that regardless of the reception, I was standing on a solid foundation of credentials. The book went on to become a bestseller, which was surprising even to me. It was even reviewed by Forbes Magazine, a testament to the power of embracing controversy and staying true to your unique perspective.

5 . Practice Your Craft: Regardless of your level of experience, ongoing practice is essential. Over my 28 years in the field, I’ve come to understand that audiences and viewpoints evolve. The one constant is my commitment to practice. I continue to create PowerPoints, even if I never use them. Why? Because it demonstrates to conference organizers, event planners, and hosts just how serious and dedicated I am. It offers them a roadmap of my presentation and instills confidence in their decision to trust me with their event. This level of preparation ensures that I’m ready to deliver a flawless performance, whether live on stage or in a video format.

In addition to these key lessons, don’t underestimate the power of testimonials. I’ve garnered over 300 testimonials on LinkedIn, serving as a powerful form of social proof. Event organizers and conference hosts often turn to these testimonials to verify if I am indeed the speaker I claim to be. This additional layer of credibility solidifies my status as a highly effective and impactful speaker. Remember, be human, and still be extraordinary.

Here’s a video of my 5 thing: https://youtu.be/iQ6yPXnOELw

You have such impressive work. What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? Where do you see yourself heading from here?

There are so many things I am excited about. One achievement is the release of my fifth book, “Rainmaking 101 From Day 1,” earlier this year. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see it outsell all four of my previous works. With that, I’m going to be speaking at Columbia University Business School and Law School. I’m enthusiastic about meeting law firm partners to introduce Rainmaker 101, a comprehensive training program focused on packaging, positioning, and pitching oneself to clients, ultimately setting them apart in a crowded marketplace. It’s about more than just being a worker bee; it’s about stepping in as the queen or king bee, armed with a distinct mindset and approach. This program is crucial for students, sales professionals, law firms, and academic institutions alike.

I am also excited about speaking at IMEX 2023, following the success of my appearance at IMEX 2022. I’m particularly looking forward to the escalator pitch and taking the main stage. Engaging with organizations like the Club Management Association of America is always a highlight for me, and I make it a point to connect with my fans wherever I go.

One significant development on the horizon is the evolution of my team. We’ve transitioned from Perfect Pitches by Precious to The Perfect Pitch Group, a change that reflects the bigger opportunities we’re pursuing. I’m proud to say that I now stand firmly on my own two feet in all aspects of my endeavors.

I’m also preparing to move from the place I’ve called home for the past five years. It’s a symbol of the elevation I’m striving for in both my personal and professional life. Reflecting on the past, I can’t help but smile at how far I’ve come since those darker days five to seven years ago. Now, I find myself in a position where I’m contributing to boards, sought after as an international professional speaker, serving as a Fortune 500 corporate sales trainer, and holding the title of a five-time best-selling author. Even after all these years, I continue to embrace my identity as a vibrant, full-figured diva and a plus-size fashionista. I’m colorful and bright, and I’m doing it my way. That’s what keeps me excited.

Can you share with our readers any self care routines, practices or treatments that you do to help your body, mind or heart to thrive? Please share a story for each one if you can.

There are a number of practices that I do to keep my mind, body, and spirit in harmony. Firstly, every morning before I get out of bed, I take a moment to express gratitude to my creator for giving me another day to chase my dreams. I dive into devotionals and listen to scripture. The night prior, I prepared my plan for the day ahead.

Investing in self-care is a non-negotiable for me. I make it a point to get facials. Maintaining fabulous hair is another priority, and I spare no effort in making sure it’s always poppin’. Quality makeup products may seem like a small thing, but they can truly transform one’s appearance. To release tension and invigorate my body, I prioritize deep tissue massages and foot massages. I also challenge myself with hot yoga, even if I’m not good at it.

One of my favorite self-care rituals is spending quality time with my girlfriends and fellow queens. We set business aside and delve into the silliness of life. In our gatherings, we’re free to express ourselves openly, discussing what went well and what didn’t. Despite the exhaustion, these moments with my friends have been a source of immense joy. I see them in a different light, appreciating their beauty and wonderful spirits. They love me not because I’m the Killer Pitch Master, not because I’m a speaker or an author, but simply for being me. It’s a gift to share my authentic self with them and with the world.

Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?

“Fortune favors the bold,” and I embody boldness to the fullest. This quote resonates deeply with me because I firmly believe that I’m not here to play small. Having those big dreams and fearlessly proclaiming them, even in the face of skepticism, has been my guiding principle. I acknowledge that I might not have the exact timeline for these aspirations, but I move forward with unwavering determination.

For me, being bold meant taking the audacious step of putting up a dating profile that ultimately led me to a man who continues to mesmerize me. It meant fearlessly pitching my business when my bank account was at -$400, ultimately securing a half-million-dollar investment in 54 seconds. It’s walking my talk, recognizing that my dreams may not resonate with everyone, and boldly going where I am genuinely celebrated, not merely tolerated.

When people ask me to pay for stage appearances, I stand my ground, understanding my worth and the value I bring. I know where I belong and where I don’t, and I boldly communicate that, regardless of the consequences. It’s about recognizing the power of audacity and embracing the truth that boldness is often the precursor to success.

You are a person of huge influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the most amount of people, what would that be?

I want to inspire a movement where, as I walk down the street, I’m surrounded by people who’ve felt forgotten and lost. Together, we’ll transform our perceived flaws into our secret weapons. We’ll defy conventions that dictate how we should speak or present ourselves. Personally, as a woman with two invisible disabilities, I used to be ashamed of my past struggles, my journey through psych wards. But that’s not my story anymore because I’ve already dealt with those experiences head-on. I don’t feel compelled to paint a picture of flawless decision-making, because that’s not authentic. I believe people resonate with me because I’m real and because I’ve emerged stronger on the other side.

For women in their late 30s, 40s, and 50s, those moments of weariness signify not an end, but a new beginning. We’ve lived long enough to recognize when time has been wasted, and now, we can channel that wisdom into self-care and self-indulgence, in the ways we’ve always wanted the world to care for us. We’ll go on those dream trips and vacations. We will have fun together. Perhaps, just like in “Sex and the City,” we’ll find that we are each other’s soulmates, supporting and celebrating one another.

Is there a person in the world whom you would love to have lunch with, and why? Maybe we can tag them and see what happens!

I’d love to share a meal with Beyoncé. I used to hate her when I was younger. But then, I started watching her behind the scenes, like when she was in the process of putting together tours. There was no makeup, no glam team — just watching pure genius unfold. She taught me the importance of putting on a show. Before she steps out with all the glitz and glamor, everything has to be meticulously planned out a year to 18 months in advance. That’s the Beyoncé way.

I’m fascinated by what happens behind the curtain, and what it truly takes to achieve success. There’s something else I’ve learned from her. When I’m doing my masterclasses, I can speak for 7, 8, or even 9 hours straight. I don’t need to take a break, I don’t even think about it. But I forget that the people around me do need breaks. That’s something I’ve picked up from her — pursuing excellence.

Am I perfect? No. My pitches might be perfect, but I’m not. However, I always strive for it. When I step onto the stage, I never want to hold back. I always want to be open to my Creator, in case there’s something that needs to be shared at that very moment. If I sense something from the audience or a shift in the atmosphere, I want to be ready to give my all. I want to leave every ounce of myself on that stage, giving them the best of what I got. That’s why I have so much admiration for Beyoncé, because I know she gives it all for her craft. I’ve never attended one of her concerts, but I feel like I’ve had the best seat in the house just by watching behind the scenes. That’s the Beyoncé who inspires me.

Are you on social media? How can our readers follow you online?

You can find me on various social media platforms. I am @perfectpitchesp over at Instagram. If you’re on LinkedIn, just look up Precious L. Williams “Killer Pitch Master”. I’m on Facebook too, under Perfect Pitches by Precious, LLC. Feel free to connect and follow along!

This was so informative, thank you so much! We wish you continued success!

About the Interviewer: Douglas E. Noll, JD, MA was born nearly blind, crippled with club feet, partially deaf, and left-handed. He overcame all of these obstacles to become a successful civil trial lawyer. In 2000, he abandoned his law practice to become a peacemaker. His calling is to serve humanity, and he executes his calling at many levels. He is an award-winning author, teacher, and trainer. He is a highly experienced mediator. Doug’s work carries him from international work to helping people resolve deep interpersonal and ideological conflicts. Doug teaches his innovative de-escalation skill that calms any angry person in 90 seconds or less. With Laurel Kaufer, Doug founded Prison of Peace in 2009. The Prison of Peace project trains life and long terms incarcerated people to be powerful peacemakers and mediators. He has been deeply moved by inmates who have learned and applied deep, empathic listening skills, leadership skills, and problem-solving skills to reduce violence in their prison communities. Their dedication to learning, improving, and serving their communities motivates him to expand the principles of Prison of Peace so that every human wanting to learn the skills of peace may do so. Doug’s awards include California Lawyer Magazine Lawyer of the Year, Best Lawyers in America Lawyer of the Year, Purpose Prize Fellow, International Academy of Mediators Syd Leezak Award of Excellence, National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals Neutral of the Year. His four books have won a number of awards and commendations. Doug’s podcast, Listen With Leaders, is now accepting guests. Click on this link to learn more and apply.