Content
Practical advice for public speaking I know a few people here have asked for public speaking advice in the past. From giving presentations to teaching in classrooms to announcements in retail stores etc. Some of you may be familiar with me. But one thing I'm yet to share is my work involves a lot of public speaking. Giving talks to kids and teaching classes in a community setting. Which means, for the most part, I'm the only one talking. I've overcome my stutter but public speaking makes everybody nervous to some degree. I thought that I'd make one post about the advice I have. Instead of posting separately in all the threads. So, these are the tips that work best for me: 1. You control the pace. Everybody is focused on you. Everybody will listen to you speak until you're finished. Most people speak fast and give little time to allow the info to sink in. To give yourself the most control, speak at a pace that makes you feel at your best. However, being energetic can make it difficult for you to speak at a slower, more controlled pace. 2. Mould your speaking around your breathing. Otherwise known as slow rated speech. Give yourself plenty of moments to breathe deeply. When you exhale, allow the sound to slide out slowly. Stay conscious of your breathing. Keep a steady breath (3 counts in, 3 counts out is standard) and avoid running out of breath. Which leads me on to my next point. 3. Short, but sweet. Keep your sentences short. Shorter sentences allow you to speak with more conviction. After a few words, pause and breathe. Easier to control your speaking when you have less things to say. Lastly, know your topic inside out! You'll be able to forego cue cards and lets you speak with more confidence. The thought of forgetting a point on a cue card can make you nervous and interrupt your flow. Otherwise, enjoy the process!! You're in control. These are some of the things I've learned. Which have definitely helped me to become a more confident speaker. Hope it helps!