10 Tips for Effective Public Speaking
From District 16 Toastmasters
Whether you’re talking to a small group of people or speaking to a large audience, you want to be sure your speech is memorable and enjoyable. Follow these easy tips to help ensure your speech delivers:
1) Be prepared. Your audience is giving you their time and consideration, so rehearse enough to be confident you’ll leave a good impression. Become as familiar with the information you’re presenting. Doing so will help your find feel at ease and allow you to focus on delivering your talk.
2) Breathe. It’s not only important for speaking properly but to keep your body refreshed. Before you start a speech, take a deep breath and BE POSITIVE!
3) Start strong. Begin your speech with a powerful opening that will grab your audience’s attention, such as a startling fact or statistic, an interesting story or a funny joke.
4) Project! Your voice must be loud enough to reach the audience at the back of the room. Stand up straight, breathe in from your diaphragm instead of your nose, and push the words through.
5) See Your People. Proper eye contact creates a connection with the audience. It inspires confidence in your message and holds their attention. Looking down at notes, at the door, ceiling or other places — everywhere but where you audience is sitting — can make your speech distracting and awkward.
7) Smile. Smiling during your talk will make the audience more comfortable. Repeatedly glowering, glaring, scowling, etc. isn’t very charming or engaging.
8) Move Around. Take time to walk away from the podium when speaking. It will help keep your audience’s attention and keep you engaged as well.
9) Speak with passion. If you’re truly invested in what you’re saying, you’ll be better able to keep your audience’s attention.
10) Be patient. It’s easy to get frustrated if you make a mistake. But remember that public speaking is not easy and it takes time to hone your skills. Keep practicing and you will reach your goals.
Have more questions about public speaking? Contact us at
d16oktoastmasters@gmail.com.