In an interview the other day, I told the writer my clients learn to make the most of their “gimme.” I unintentionally perplexed him.

In case you’re not using your gimme, here’s what you should know. Your gimme is that thing that makes you stand out when you’re talking about your business, whether it’s a one-on-one-conversation or a talk in front of a group.

In golf, a gimme is a shot you don’t have to take – it just counts automatically. In speaking, a gimme is a skill or talent you don’t have to work at. It’s something you already naturally do or have. You don’t have to cultivate it; it’s already yours.

The trick is to count your gimme – most of us overlook our natural abilities precisely because they’re so natural. So count it … and then make the most of it in every business presentation.

Maybe you have years of experience in your industry. That’s something you can use to increase your credibility and authority.

Or maybe you’re tall. Taller people are perceived as more powerful and more intelligent, which probably explains why average salary increases with height.

Being attractive give you a similar advantage. Pretty people are seen as nicer and smarter than the rest of us; studies show teachers favor attractive students and employers are more positive about good-looking professionals. It’s no wonder audiences are drawn to speakers who look appealing.

If you have a terrific sense of humor or a special way with words, that’s an asset that you should be taking advantage of.

Maybe you can draw – you ought to be using a white board or flip chart during presentations, or even sketching something out on a napkin during a business lunch. Your artistic ability will make your message memorable and make you stand out from your competition.

When I was in the Hell Yeah Stars program, speaker and author Larry Winget commented on my voice: “You just open your mouth and people automatically pay attention to every word you say.” Silly as it sounds, I can forget how huge that is when I’m in front of an audience; I take my voice for granted. (After all, I hear it all the time!) Larry reminded me to make the best use of that natural talent.

So my question is: are YOU making the most of your natural talents? Are you giving yourself full credit for everything you bring to a presentation or a conversation? Are you capitalizing on that special gift of yours to connect with an audience, make a strong impression, and get results?

In my work with business owners who want to use speaking to get more clients, have more impact and make more money, a big part of it is helping them see what they already do well. Then we build on that.

Of course a person can always learn something new. We can refine our language or our use of gestures or facial expression. We can even start from scratch to develop skills we don’t have yet. But being comfortable and confident in front of an audience (of any size) starts with using your gimme well.

So tell me, what’s your gimme? And let me know how you’re putting your gimme to use when you talk about your business. Drop me a line: Catherine@catherinejohns.com