Public Speaking

“I saw a study that speaking in front of a crowd is considered the number-one fear of the average person. I found that amazing. Number two was death. Death is number two? This means, to the average person, if you have to be at a funeral, you would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy.” - jerry Seinfeld

Fear of Public Speaking Population No. 3 fear = Death No. 2 fear = Snakes No. 1 fear = Public Speaking Stage Fright In spotlight Unprepared Inexperienced This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND

The Four Key Elements of Effective Public Speaking! Understanding your audience. Preparing your content. Delivering confidently. Controlling the environment.

Understanding your audience The success of a speech is generally discerned by how the audience responds. When putting together a speech or presentation, think of the following: Determine who the members of the audience are. Find out what they want and expect from your presentation. What do they need to learn? Do they have entrenched attitudes or interest that you need to respect? And what do they already know that you don’t have to repeat?

Preparing your content It is important to understand what you are presenting, and how to present it. Provide your information in a well-structured format, and include various techniques to keep your audience engaged and interested. Here are some principles you can apply: Research your content and identifying your key points (use cue cards to help outline points) Speak on what you know! Don’t include every detail – good speeches inspire the audience to learn more and ask questions. Start and end strongly - Capture the audience’s interest and leave them with a message they won’t forget. Use examples to support your points (tell stories, use real-life examples, or metaphors).

Delivering Confidently Even the best content can be ineffective if your presentation style contradicts or detracts from your message. Try the following to reduce anxiety and improve you skills: Practice to build confidence Be flexible Manage your stress (physical relaxation techniques, imagery, build self-confidence) Practice presence (body language, voice tone, gestures, eye contact, positive attitude)

Controlling the Environment Much of the outside environment is beyond your control; however, there are still somethings you can do to reduce potential risks to your presentation. Practice in the presentation room Do your own setup Test your timing

Things to Avoid Read directly from notes Read from a screen Turn back on audience Slouch Use filler words Nervous gestures (don’t tell the audience you are nervous) Talk too fast Talk too quietly Avoid eye contact