Public Speaking Articles and Tips
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- Body language
- Lose the fear of speaking in public
- How to pace your words for maximum effectiveness
- Presentation skills
- Talking to the media
- The flight or fight response
- Wedding speeches
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Avoid 'switch-off' - ensure your message is heard!
Body Language is our most ancient language. And it plays an important role in speaking to an audience, to camera or to the media People judge you the moment they see you. Watch out for the 'silent signals' - you may be sending the wrong ones!
- Always greet people with a smile and eye contact.
- Arms folded or across the body – closed or defensive
- Eye rubbing – tired, bored, disbelieving
- Appropriate dress - respect and interest
- Expressive, ‘open’ hands’ – honesty
- Smiling – confident, sincere
Presentations should be planned and structured (approximately) - introduction 10%, message 80%, conclusion 10%.
- Engage and involve your audience. Ask them questions and invite them to ask questions.
- Talk to them not at them.
- Tell real stories and anecdotes. Use facts to back up your message.
- Use Powerpoint less not more. More images and photos, less graphs and jargon.
- Use bullet points not whole sentences on screen. Never read the screen to the audience.
Nervousness and fear can be overcome if you have prepared thoroughly.
- If you know your material and stories well enough to not need more than bullet points.
- If you have rehearsed out loud to a coach or supportive listener.
- If you have checked out the venue and any technical support.
- If you sincerely believe in your message and believe in yourself.
- If you focus on your audience and message more than on yourself.
Tips Summary
- Tell stories, anecdotes, give examples – it will help audiences to relate and identify.
- Prepare ahead. Rehearse main points, facts and stories. Remember it takes practice - like sport or music.
- Be yourself and remember to believe in yourself and your message – then others will. Sincerity is the key.
- Check out the location make yourself at ease there.
- Use the adrenaline from any nervousness to give you positive energy – remember you are human, not perfect.
- Use pause - it gives your audience time to process your words and gives you time to think where you are going.
- Be interested in your audience - more than in your notes or Powerpoint.
- Find a coach - or someone you can trust - to give you feedback when you rehearse.
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