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You never know when you might be asked to speak to an audience of three or three hundred. It could be a sales presentation, a eulogy, a gathering of friends, or something else entirely. Whatever form it takes, it’s an opportunity to express your views, expand your influence, and share your knowledge.
Don’t pass on an opportunity to express your opinion. But what’s your reaction when you get asked? Do you feel gripped with fear? Are you concerned about what you will say and how you will appear?
If you have any feelings of trepidation, here are a few suggestions to help you overcome them.
First, realize that your fears will decrease the more you prepare in advance, so find out the needs of your audience before you do anything else. Once you know what your audience needs to hear, list the important points you want to address, add a story or illustration of each point. Prepare a few notes on a single sheet of paper that will keep you on track.
Even though you’ll have notes, never read your speech! To connect with your audience, you need to maintain eye contact with them, and you can’t do that if you’re reading. And don’t forget to smile – it is vital for them to know you care about them.
Practice projecting your voice in case there isn’t a microphone. After all, if people can’t hear you, they can’t listen to you. Your body language is almost as important as your spoken language, so don’t pace, rock back and forth, or lean on the lectern while you talk.
Prepare in advance for any questions. There are methods of side stepping answers so you don’t lose credibility.
These are just a few suggestions. Want more help? Both speech coaches and organizations such as Toastmasters International will help to strengthen your ability to “stand and deliver.”
Carolyn Stein is the author of “Delivering Powerful Speeches”. She is a TEDx Talk Coach and offers workshops on Public Speaking and Leadership. carolynkstein@aol.com
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