At some point in your life, career, even in retirement, someone is going to ask you to speak in public. Most of the time these will be short introductory forays in front of friends and family. Think your best friend’s wedding toast or other social interactions. Still, there are going to be the occasional work-related presentations in front of co-workers or gasp a sales presentation for a new client.
For many people, just the thought of speaking in public brings on a panic attack that has them racing to the nearest exit. But speaking in front of people needn’t be scary and off-putting. In fact, you can manage it better than you think with preparation and practice before the big day.
I have gathered 9 confidence-boosting tips for you to try the next time you are asked to speak publicly.
1 | Watch how famous speakers do it
Begin by observing the traits and habits of successful public speakers. Take note of their styles and timing. What engagement techniques do they use with their audience?
2 | Dress for the occasion
Personal grooming is very important. How will people pay attention to your speech if all they can see is your messy hair or wrinkled suit? Make sure you look good, ready, and professional.
3 | Connect with your audience
One of the best ways to create a connection with your audience is to speak from your heart. Don’t just memorize your speech, talk with feelings and allow your emotions to rise to the surface. When people see you are passionate about something they almost always connect with you. Using stories is another compelling way to interact with your audience. They have probably experienced something similar that brings their own feelings to the surface.
4 | Start believing you are fabulous
Negative thinking will not help you deliver your best speech. When you are confident about yourself, it will radiate in your speech. Walk the stage and use your voice and body language. When you speak, speak with authority and confidence.
5 | Don’t be too hard on yourself
We all make mistakes but if you don’t tell anybody no one will ever know. It’s alright if you forget to read something or accidentally skip forward. Relax and carry on. Remember your audience is on your side. They want to learn what it is you have to say or teach.
6 | Slow Down
If you are a fast or nervous talker, try to slow down and enjoy every moment of your speech. No matter how good your material is, if the audience can’t keep up, they will go home learning NOTHING.
7 | Establish Eye Contact
Always look at your audience when speaking to them this helps to put them at ease. Pick out individuals in the crowd and speak to them. You will appear more confident when your head is held up rather than face down glued to your notes.
8 | Use humor
You don’t need to be a comedic genius, but a few lighthearted comments will liven the mood in the room. You can surely win your audience with well-timed clever remarks.
9 | Keep it short and sweet
You can’t go on for hours speaking about the same thing. Organize all your points and deliver them accordingly. Don’t torture your audience by having them listen to your ramblings.
Well, there you have it. A broad overview of what you need to know to speak more confidently in front of people.
My favorite tip is number 5. Please let me know what your favorite is or if you have a tip of your own that you use.
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