The 10 Fundamentals of Public Speaking

This confidence is rooted in having something to say, being organized, and knowing the audience.  Many people struggle with these challenges especially when there is not much time to prepare.

Something to Say:

Having something to say that is relevant and substantive is perceived by audiences that you are credible and that you take them seriously.  They feel that their time has been invested productively and they look forward to hearing you again.

Being Organized:

Knowledgeable people often undermine their credibility by giving a presentation that is poorly organized.  They do not have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.  Their brain cells are not in alignment resulting in thoughts and ideas that wander leaving the audience perplexed and unimpressed.

Knowing the Audience:

Substantive content and organization must be tailored to one’s audience.  Being clear about how the ideas and concepts apply specifically to the audience and how the audience can benefit from those ideas, is the glue that connects the speaker to the audience emotionally.

Practice. Practice. Practice:

Rehearse out loud with all equipment you plan on using. Revise as necessary. Work to control filler words; Practice, pause and breathe. Practice with a timer and allow time for the unexpected.

Know the audience:

Greet some of the audience members as they arrive. It’s easier to speak to a group of friends than to strangers. Know the room. Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and practice using the microphone and any visual aids.

Relax:

Begin by addressing the audience. It buys you time and calms your nerves. Pause, smile and count to three before saying anything. ("One one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one-thousand. Pause. Begin.) Transform nervous energy into enthusiasm.

Visualize yourself giving your speech:

Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear and confident. Visualize the audience clapping – it will boost your confidence.

Realize that people want you to succeed:

Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative and entertaining. They’re rooting for you.

                  

Don’t apologize:

For any nervousness or problem – the audience probably never noticed it.

Concentrate on the message – not the medium:

Focus your attention away from your own anxieties and concentrate on your message and your audience.

Gain experience:

Mainly, your speech should represent you — as an authority and as a person. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking. A Toastmasters club can provide the experience you need in a safe and friendly environment.