Public Speaking Tips

I was cruising one of the forums I frequent this morning, and one of the members asked for some tips on speaking in public.

It seems he had a chance to do a 25 minute presentation to a local business group on his area of expertise.

Here are the tips I gave him…

1. Most people, when they first start speaking, talk way too fast. You should feel like you’re talking just a bit slower than normal. Of course, if you catch the spirit, let it move you.

2. Use the same hand gestures as you would when talking to someone one-on-one, but just a little bigger.

3. Practice in front of a video camera, then watch the recording. You’ll notice the points and words you stumble over, and you can either practice them or rewrite that bit to flow easier.

4. Do NOT try to memorize your talk word for word. If you get distracted (think loud cough or sneeze in the audience, catering people moving around, questions or comments from the audience, etc.) and lose your place, or forget your lines, you’re screwed.

5. Don’t be afraid to use memory aids. An index card with your outline is cool. No one will fault you for a quick glance to make sure you are on track. Even pros use cue cards.

6. Have fun with it. As the Toastmasters people say, you can’t get rid of the butterflies, but you can sure teach them to fly in formation…

Many local business owners could benefit from such an opportunity. It gives you a chance to strut your stuff, positioning yourself as the go-to guy (or gal) in your field. Other than the occasional evil dictator, no one has ever died from from giving a speech.

Keep in mind, though, this is Show and Tell, not Show and Sell. Use your time to provide real value to your audience, then at the end you can mention your business and offer to answer questions.

And I can tell you from experience, when you put it all together and the applause rolls, the rush is fantastic.

Popularity: 62% [?]