Practicing public speaking can boost your confidence in many different situations. If public speaking is something that intimidates you, you may just need to learn a few basic rules of thumb. Read on to learn how you can optimize your skills as a public speaker.
If you use a timer, you can accurately gauge the length of your speech. This can help you edit it and retrain its length. If you find your presentation is short, get some more material by doing more research. Never rush when you are delivering a speech publically.
If you are preparing for a public speaking engagement in advance, memorize your speech first, before anything else. Once you can recite your speech from memory at any point of day, then you can work on delivery. Once you have the speech memorized, you can ad lib once you are on the stage.
Know your material as best you can. It's good to have figures, facts, and stories about your topic that you can bring up with ease. If you have time, you can add in some of these things throughout your speech as needed. They can also help you when it comes time for the audience to ask questions.
Keep your attention towards the audience. Don't let yourself become distracted. You must command the attention of your audience.
When preparing to make a speech, be sure to understand the concept of your topic first. Do research that comes at your main topic from many different points of view. Then you can hone in and discover your personal point of view in order to prepare an effective speech. You'll be glad you prepared when you can adequately answer questions.
Make sure you are acquainted with your audience. If you can, learn who the individuals are who are expected to attend. If possible, greet them when they arrive. Having a feeling of familiarity with some audience members can make the whole presentation or speech feel more friendly.
Become familiar with the environment before giving a public speech. Find out if there is a microphone. Check out the microphone and other equipment so that you feel at ease with it. Learn how you can use any of the visual aids if they are present. Find out what eye contact range you should have.
Dress appropriately for any speech you're giving. The way you looks reflects on your speech. If you are a man, you may wish to wear a necktie. This directs people's eyes to your face and head, which helps them focus on what you are saying.
Before giving a speech, connect with the audience. As they come into the area, smile at them and perhaps greet them personally. Presenting yourself in a positive light before your speech prepares the audience to listen to you with interest.
Rehearse your presentation daily. This will give you confidence because it will make you feel prepared. Although you may have your speech memorized, you should always take your notes to the podium with you. This helps if you forget something since you can peek down at them for a refresher.
Be sure to go out with a bang for a very memorable ending to your speech. Your whole speech is important, of course, but the conclusion is likely what is most remembered. Do not end with something boring so you can stay memorable.
After reading the above article, your head should now be full of suggestions of how you can become a better public speaker. Apply these tips as you hone your skills. Even when you are not called upon to speak in public, these pieces of advice can still be useful in helping you be more confident and assured in many situations.
