Top Tips

by Claudia Welsh

TIPS TOP 5 Top Tips for Public Speaking

Public speaking is an essential part of communication in the world of business and life in general. Glossophobia, the fear of public speaking, affects even leaders and persons of authority. Effective public speaking can lead to trust, sound relationships and rewarding outcomes. Here are five tips on how to be successful at public speaking.

1. Know Your Topic

Knowing and understanding your topic is paramount. Look what is to be said and why. Look at its appropriateness and relevance to the audience, and the occasion. Look into how the speech can be presented in keeping with your personality style while being understood by all.

Research your topic thoroughly. Speak to the experts. Read widely for an improved information base and broader vocabulary thus expressing your thoughts effectively. Knowing your topic will educate you, and improve your self-confidence leading to great public speaking.

2. Know Your Audience

It is key to have some knowledge of the audience to whom you will be presenting your speech. E.g., at a board meeting, you will know who to expect, what information to offer, and how best to present it. On the other hand, the audience may be unfamiliar e.g., delegates at a seminar. Hence do your research, then tailor your speech accordingly. Attending the venue early to observe and interact with the audience may give you an idea of who they are. It may reassure you and thus lessen your anxiety.

3. Preparation

Your speech will need a logically signposted structure that both you and your audience can follow. All good speeches hang on the framework of an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. An introduction lays the foundation of the speech. It says:

• what the topic is • what aspects of the topic will be focussed on in the body of the speech (usually done in three parts) • how it will be delivered • its relevance to the audience and • the timing

The body is the main portion of the speech and should:

• Expound on the topic areas outlined in the introduction • acknowledge any changes or diversions to keep the audience informed • break the information into receivable portions, usually three main topic areas • engage the audience through anecdotes, storytelling, relatable examples, interactive questions, and varying the tone of your voice to avoid monotony and boredom • use of simple language and imagery • use of statistics and references where appropriate • keep to time

Your conclusion should address the main points raised in the introduction, saying how they were fulfilled in the speech. Key points from the speech should be raised to re-establish focus on the topic, and to remind the audience of what is important in the message. Your conclusion may have a call-to-action, Q&A, and signpost to more information. Remember to thank your audience before closing your speech.

4. Practice

Practice makes perfect and is good for building your confidence and lowering your anxiety levels.

This can be done by using audio/video recordings and then reviewing and adapting your speech as required. A live practice/ sample audience made from co-workers, family members, friends, or a combination of all three are good sources for feedback. Practice at the venue and do sound checks if possible.

Practicing your speech includes: • noting your body language, facial countenance, and habits so that they can be adjusted • checking vocal range to ensure that you are consistently audible • noting vocal ranges and intonations which if varied can encourage listeners’ engagement. That way flat monotones which can be disengaging are avoided • checking the timing of your speech • hearing how the speech flows from one point to the other, as well as the word choices used to express a sentiment • enjoying your speech thus showing your personality. This will put the audience at ease, perceiving you as relatable

5. Review & Adapt

After practicing your speech, review feedback, and reflect on your performance. Be open to constructive comments. Note that not everyone is skilled in giving feedback, so listen to what is being said. Ask questions for clarity of feedback and reflection. Adapt accordingly. Remember that your audience only knows what you have presented to them. You have the bigger picture. Feedbacks heighten your awareness of self and audience.

To conclude, in addition to the above tips, ensure that you are rested, well-fed, and in a good frame of mind. Dress appropriately and comfortably to boost your self-confidence thus setting others at ease. Be prepared for unforeseen circumstances, e.g., there may be a change in the line-up of the presenters.

Where things do not go as planned, learn from it to further develop your public speaking skills. Forgive yourself, grow and have a fulfilled public speaking journey.