Lots of people hate the idea of speaking in public. For some, this even outranks death. Since public speaking is scary for most, being prepared in advance is always a good idea. Use the following information to help you with your public speaking.
You can’t speak before an audience and think that others will automatically know what you’re saying. You have to put in an effort to keep the audience interested in what you’re saying. You need to perform well to get what you want from the speech.
Try using a timer to time the length of your speech. This will help you make any edits and time your speech appropriately. If your speech needs to be longer, research the subject for more information to add. Don’t rush when you make your speech.
When practicing to give a public speech, it is a great idea to commit it to memory. After you can say it from memory, figure out how you want the delivery to go. If you know your speech, you can add to it and play with it a little while you are on stage, while still getting your message across.
Prepare in advance the best that you can before a speech. Have a good understanding of what you are trying to say. Back up your words with thorough research. Jot down notes of anything you’ll be conveying so you can scan over them while giving your speech. Practice the speech so that you could say it in your sleep. Being prepared will make you confident when you step up to the podium.
Know your material inside and out. Even when you memorize your speech, it is good to know facts, figures and even jokes and stories related to your topic. Use them judiciously when you feel your audience is receptive. Have a question session at the end of your speech.
Always make sure to look at your audience. While it can be easy to get distracted by other things around you, don’t! It is important that the audience has your undivided attention, in order for them to get the message that you would like them to get.
When you speak in public, preparation is critical. Know exactly what you are going to say. Do your homework to back up your statements, if you must. Write down the ideas you wish to convey. Practice daily until you know your speech by heart. All of the preparation will come in handy, and you will be more confident when up on stage.
Know what you are talking about, inside and out. Meticulously do your research so that you will have the ability to answer any questions you may be asked. Then, write down the key points you want to touch on during your speech. You’ll be glad you prepared when you can adequately answer questions.
Know your audience. If you can, learn who is going to be in attendance. Greet your audience when they walk through the door. When you do these things, you’ll feel a lot more familiar with the people and the room.
Tell a true story to practice speaking publicly. Prior to the day of your speech, make an outline of your story. Make sure you have an intro, body, and conclusion. Your story should be genuine and your words should be natural and authentic.
Once you memorize your speech, then practice it over and over. This will allow you time to tweak the speech if needed. Make sure you master proper pace and breathing. Insert spaces into your speech that allow for interruptions, such as applause. When you can, try out your speech using the exact equipment used in the public event.
Dress well for the event. You will speak more confidently, if you are dressed nicely. Men should try wearing neckties to direct the audience to their faces so that they better focus on your speech.
Try not to drink booze before speaking. You may be tempted to consume a little liquid courage, but it is not a good idea. You’ll regret it when you’re standing there and forget your speech because your brain is too fuzzy.
Make sure you practice your speech every single day. You will start to know the material very well, which should help you feel better about the speech as a whole. Even if your speech is memorized, it’s still worth bringing some notes when you actually deliver the speech. This helps you quickly get back on track if you lose your train of thought during the speech.
When you prepare your speech, make sure you have a good understanding of the topic before you begin. Meticulously do your research so that you will have the ability to answer any questions you may be asked. Make sure that you understand each of the key points. You will be better prepared when you have questions to answer.
Note Cards
Try using note cards if you can. While you should commit your speech to memory, keep a written copy handy in case you lose your place. You don’t need the whole thing written down, but having your main points on note cards can help you avoid leaving out the important points in your speech.
Even when nervous, never apologize. You may think your audience knows you are nervous; however, most of the time the audience will not even realize it. Do not apologize if you realize you made a mistake, but correct is promptly and continue on.
Know the audience that you are speaking to. Try to find out the names of individuals who will be listening. If possible, greet the audience members individually as they come in. Include some of the people in your speech, and this will give it a much more friendly tone.
When you are speaking before a large group, make sure your voice is strong and clear so you will be heard. If you can, have a glassful of water nearby. Do not drink milk or soda on the day on which you are making your speech. You may end up with excess mucous during your speech. Hot tea prior to your speech can help relax the vocal chords.
Make sure your head is in the right place. Feeling nervous is normal. Everyone experiences a little anxiety and nervousness right before an important speech. But, you need to stop yourself from thinking negative thoughts. If you lack confidence, your speech will reflect it. Believe in your success, and it will come.
Consider using a friendly story at the beginning of your speech so you can connect with the crowd. This can be a personal experience, a relevant news item, or a hypothetical situation. This will make you subject matter seem more human. When preparing your story, don’t incorporate inappropriate or offensive material.
If you are like millions of other people who experience anxiety before giving a public speech, brush-up on your deep breathing abilities. Deep breaths that are taken slowly in and out can calm you. Breathe in for four seconds and then breathe out. Repeat this six times and you will soon feel so much calmer.
Who is your audience? Each audience is bound to have different expectations with regards to your speech. As an example, your colleagues will be looking to learn something new from your speech. Your friends and loved ones are probably just hoping to be entertained. Despite the audience, give them exactly what they want.
Speaking in public in front of people is often a top fear that most people have. It’s important not to allow this fear to take control of your life. The suggestions you just read should help you greatly.