Background
Since 2019, I have been coaching executives in public speaking.
Together, we structure the message and arguments, address potential challenges and roadblocks, and then work on delivery through targeted simulations.
My uniqueness as a coach lies in my unconventional background: a trained civil engineer who became an actor and later a director, I have a sharp ability to identify the root causes of blocks—whether in the message or delivery—and quickly implement solutions to address them.
My approach is based on a small set of key principles, which I compiled in 2024 into the course "Public Speaking for Engineers, Researchers, and Scientific Professionals" (launching in 2025).
Strengths
Civil Engineer
As an engineer from École des Ponts, I understand business challenges and help craft clear messages, even when they are technically complex.
Actor
With professional actor training, I master the technical and emotional aspects of performance to guide every element of your delivery.
Screenwriter
Trained at Maison du Film and a multiple award-winning screenwriter, I leverage storytelling to help you foster empathy and engage your audience.
Director
Alongside fiction projects, I have been directing corporate and TV documentaries since 2014, mastering interviews from both sides of the camera.
Improvisation
Since fall 2024, I have been running a weekly improvisation workshop for professionals and amateurs, fostering spontaneity and risk-taking.
Bilingual
Fluent in French and English since childhood, I work seamlessly in both languages, whether crafting messages in writing or preparing for oral delivery.
Methodology
▶ Avoid Getting Trapped by Form
Standing straight, enunciating clearly, avoiding verbal tics, not fidgeting with your hands... These matter far less than you think. Focusing too much on form is the main cause of stage fright in front of an audience or camera. The goal isn’t to become a perfectly polished speaker (you’re not aiming to be a weather presenter, right?) but to cultivate a delivery style that’s authentic to you, unlocking spontaneity and making every presentation easier. Working in this direction sets the stage for long-term progress.
▶ Align with Your Message
Promoting a clear, consistent message over time is the only way to advance projects that matter to you. Of course, your next presentation is crucial. But it’s the consistency of your message—both before and after your presentation, in professional follow-ups and informal exchanges—that determines its impact and whether your audience will act. This is why crafting a clear, simple message that you’re fully aligned with is key. A message you can deliver effortlessly.
▶ Spark Interest and Build Empathy
True, verified, and verifiable arguments alone are not enough to win over an audience, jury, or decision-maker. Convincing requires creating an emotional connection. This idea often intimidates people in scientific fields, as it can seem like you need to abandon truth for marketing gimmicks. Not at all: this connection is built through storytelling by highlighting relatable aspects of your journey. When well-prepared and adapted to the speaker, this exercise feels completely sincere and natural.
Online Course
In 2024, I consolidated the techniques used in my coaching sessions into a video course titled "Public Speaking for Engineers, Researchers, and Scientific Professionals."
Join the waiting list to be notified as soon as it launches in early 2025.
Coaching and Training
Individual coaching sessions are available Monday to Wednesday, either in-person (Paris region) or online. Other arrangements are possible upon request.
Group training sessions are organized on a case-by-case basis, with customized quotes.
All services are managed through my company ChezFilms.
For any inquiries: nicolas@chezfilms.com.