 According to most studies, people's number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you're better off in the casket than doing the eulogy. Jerry Seinfeld:

A) Preparation  1) Be prepared! There is no substitution for preparation and practice. Don’t “wing it.”  2) Know your audience. Think about what they would like to hear. Know what their interests are.

B) Posture  3) Body language is important! Stand up straight (don’t lean). ○ Makes you look disinterested or bored. Don’t sway. ○ This will distract your audience.  4) Make eye contact with your audience. Gives the content a personal touch.

C) Speaking  5) Vary your tone. Speech should sound conversational. Speak louder, speak softer – don’t sound like a robot. Everyone in the room should be able to hear you at all times.  6) Speak clearly: not too fast or slow. Too fast = difficult to understand. Too slow = boring. Mix it up.

C) Speaking continued  7) Do not use weak language. Weak language consists of any words that do not add to the message you are sending. Eliminate words such as: um, like, uh, I mean, well, you know, what I want to say is, etc.

Examples:  sales  Marketing

Conquering a Fear of Public Speaking  1) 90% of nervousness does not show.  2) Take a few deep breaths.  3) Look for a friendly face.  4) If you make a mistake, don’t worry about it! It is likely the audience missed it.  5) Practice, practice, practice! The more prepared you are, the more confident you will be.

Remembering Your Material  Do NOT read your speech word for word. Lose voice inflection. Decreases eye contact and movement.  Do NOT rely solely on memorization. Distractions happen. Always have a note card in case you need help.

Remembering Your Material  Use note cards. Keeps speech organized. Allows speaker to sound natural and conversational. Increases eye contact.

Creating Note Cards  Organize Material!  Use only key words and phrases (not full text; just reminders) Too much information leads to problems. ○ Relying too much on the cards. ○ Difficulty finding your spot if you lose your place. Exception: Quotes or statistics should be written in their entirety.  Use large print.  Number your cards!

Speaking Assignment  Use a favorite piece of clothing or an accessory to teach your peers something about who you are.  Must have item with you for your speech.  2-4 minutes in length.  Use note cards.

Example:  Everyone wears t-shirts…  Dishwasher uniform  My style Not flashy / center of attention Comfortable / well worn.  Besides comfortable…Memories  Move in day. Feelings / memories  Concert.  Worn hundreds of times in many places…will continue.