7 rules to be a better public speaker

MASTERING the art of public speaking will not only help you to deliver a successful presentation, but will also come in handy for networking events, client pitches, reports to the board, conference presentations, and even interviewing for a new role.

So here are seven rules to follow to help you to speak confidently and without showing your nerves. 1. Don’t speak too fast
If you think need to slow it down, you are almost certainly speaking too fast Slow down a bit. And then a little bit more and you’ll have the perfect speed for public speaking.

2. Do speak to the back of the room
If you’re projecting your voice to the back of the room then you know everyone can hear you. If people need to strain even the tiniest bit to hear you, then you’ll lose them immediately.

3. Don’t apologise
People generally only notice your mistakes when you draw attention to them. Don’t tell people you’ve forgotten something or said something wrong, they don’t know or need to know that. Just take a pause, have a drink of water, and move on.

4. Do look at your audience
Don’t look at the slides behind you and if you’re the kind of person that needs to refer back to your notes, have a copy in front of you so that you never turn your back on your audience. Don’t look at the floor or the walls either. Try and take the time to make eye contact with every person in the room during your speech.

Even if you only make eye contact once, an audience member will come away feeling as though you spoke directly to them.

6. Don’t forget your audience wants you to do well

They’re there because they want to learn and want to be entertained. Even if they were forced to attend, they still want to get the most out of it. They want you to succeed. They are on your side…even if it doesn’t feel like it.

5. Do take a breather

The pause is one of the most effective tools in public speaking. It emphasises the point you just made and allows your audience to digest information. It will also grab people’s attention and give you the time needed to compose yourself and remember what’s next.

Don’t be afraid to pause…even for ten or 15 seconds – it feels a lot longer to you than to your audience.

7. Don’t forget to practice

We often only speak to an audience during the most important and stressful events of our life. So, take the time to practice in situations where there is less pressure, practice on groups of colleagues or even your pets.

Practice is the key to being able to cope when there is unexpected chaos. If you know what you’re doing, then a problem won’t throw you and knowing you can cope will instantly boost your confidence.

 

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