Even if you try to get away from it, the chances are that you may need to make a public speech at some point. It does not matter who you are addressing; your public speaking skills are going to impact your audience. Here we have listed some expert advice that will help you to refine these important skills and give a better speech.
You cannot speak in public and believe that people will automatically follow what you are saying. You have to put in your best effort if you want people to connect with you and stay with you throughout your speech. You will need to use multiple tactics to keep their attention.
Time yourself to find out how long your speech is. Doing this allows you to make sure you stay within the time frame given to you. If you find your speech is lacking length, add a little extra information to help fill time. Also, don’t rush through your speech when it comes time to give it.
Commit your speech to your memory as soon as you can. Once you have the ability to make your speech without assistance at any time, you can then start working on delivery. Memorize it and you will feel more comfortable with it.
If you plan to prepare in advance for a speech, try to memorize your remarks. After you have committed the speech to memory, now is the time you want to perfect your delivery. Knowing your speech by heart will also enable you to ad lib if necessary, once you’re at the podium.
Face you audience at all times when you are giving a speech. Do not permit other things that may be occurring in the room to distract you. 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.
Know what type of audience you will be talking to. If at all possible, find out who the people are in the crowd. If it’s possible, try greeting them as they arrive and take the time to learn their names. The crowd will feel more friendly if you have a level of familiarity with at least some of the people.
The key to a good speech is preparation. Get everything you want to share in your speech down well. To support a particular fact, research it thoroughly before stating it. Write down your speech. Take time to rehearse your speech until you have it memorized. Being well-prepared can improve confidence when it’s time for your actual speech.
5 Seconds
Practice some deep breathing to help you through your speech. Take several breaths and exhale before you start to calm your nerves. First, inhale and hold it for 5 seconds. Then slowly exhale for about 5 seconds. Do this up to six times and you can feel more relaxed.
Practice is the single best way to make sure you know exactly what to say. Try giving your speech while looking in a mirror, or record it and play it back to find out how to make it better. However, it is always best to prepare your speech in front of family and friends, since instant feedback is the best.
Keep your attention towards the audience. Do not permit other things that may be occurring in the room to distract you. You must command the attention of your audience.
No matter what the occasion for giving a speech, dress to impress. A well-dressed person gives off an air of confidence and it comes through as they speak. Men should wear ties if possible, as ties help to direct eyes towards your face as you speak.
Practice making your speech every day. You will know every nuance of the speech if you do this, which will help make you more confident. Even if your speech is memorized, it’s still worth bringing some notes when you actually deliver the speech. They can be a real help if you’ve forgotten a section and you need to get back on track.
Have a memorable ending if you hope to have your audience remember any of your speech. This is what people are going to remember the most. If the conclusion is lackluster, the audience is likely to forget the whole presentation.
After you know your speech inside and out, practice it! Work on issues where you lose your flow. You should also practice breathing and the pace of your speaking. Be certain your speech timing allows for potential applause or other interruptions. If you can, go over your speech where you will be delivering it.
Note Cards
If you have to, make use of note cards. Even though it is best that you memorize your speech, keeping a hard copy of it close by is a good idea. 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. Even if you feel that you are not doing very well, the audience may have a different impression. Just correct any mistake and don’t apologize.
Understand the audience you are speaking to. Look up the list of attendees at the event. If it’s possible, try greeting them as they arrive and take the time to learn their names. Having a feeling of familiarity with some audience members can make the whole presentation or speech feel more friendly.
When you speak to large groups of people, you need a clear, strong voice. If you can, have a glassful of water nearby. Steer clear of dairy-based beverages or sodas on the day your speech is scheduled. These fluids can stimulate the production of mucous and inhibit saliva production. Hot tea may be just the trick to get your voice in shape before speaking.
Never just “wing it” when it comes to giving an important speech. No matter how much of an expert you are, this is a mistake. You should be able to string together some sentences. However, your speech will be so much better if you bother to prepare for it.
Make sure your thoughts are positive ones. Being nervous is okay. Just about everyone shares that sentiment prior to speaking. Thinking negatively is not okay. Believing that you will do badly makes it more likely that you will. If you think positively, you will do well.
You can become better at public speaking by telling a story that is true. Before you give a speech, make an outline. The story needs a defined beginning, middle, and a clear ending for the best communication of ideas. Your story will seem natural if it’s a real one.
You don’t have to be a literary genius or crafty politician to use public speaking skills. Preparing yourself and increasing self confidence are keys to success. The above tips may help you in more ways than one.