2. Definition of Public Speaking
Public speaking is a process of speaking to a group of people
in a structured, deliberate manner intended to inform,
influence, or entertain the listeners.
It is closely allied to "presenting", although the latter has more
of a commercial advertisement connotation. Public speaking is
commonly understood as a kind of face-to-face speaking
between individuals and audience for the purpose of
communication.
Good orators should be able to change the emotions of their
listeners, not just inform them.
Public speaking can be a powerful tool to use for purposes
such as motivation, influence, persuasion, informing,
translation, or simply ethos.
3.
4. What is Effective Public Speaking
Public speaking is an acquired art that is refined by practice
and experience. Solid content, effective communication and
self-confidence are the foundations of effective public
speaking.
5. 1. Content
First, find something you really want to talk about. You need
to believe in your message before your audience can believe
in it. That's why more than anything, you've got to have
passion before you step up to the podium.
Be enthusiastic and excited about sharing your ideas,
thoughts and impressions with other people. There really
aren't any strangers---we are all strung together on the thread
of human experiences. Just everyday happenings, narrated
with humour and insight, will help you to connect with your
audience.
6. 2. Confidence
Believe not just in your message but also in yourself. You're
not the only speaker in history to have a butterfly garden in
your stomach before a speech.
First, visualize yourself giving a successful speech. Imagine
that you are standing in front of an appreciative audience,
listening intently to your interesting talk, which you deliver with
clarity and confidence. Visualize your audience applauding
you--it will help in still self confidence.
7. 3. Communication
The success of your speech depends on effective
communication.
Establish eye contact with your audience. Adopt a relaxed
stance and body language. Use everyday, conversational
language.
Avoid a stentorian tone and use words that most people are
familiar with. Even dry business charts can be enlivened with
a personal touch.
8. 4. Preparation
At first, practice your speech in front of a mirror. Look up the
correct pronunciation of words that are not familiar to you.
Practice voice modulation.
Nobody wants to listen to a 45-minute speech on technology
insertion, delivered in a monotone. Familiarize yourself with
the audience beforehand; greet and mingle with few people
prior to the meeting.
This way, you'll be more at ease when you stand at the
podium and deliver your speech. Arrive early and do a dry run
with the equipment--microphone, overhead projector and
such.
9. 5. Delivery
Your speech is like a cat. It has a head (introduction), body
(middle) and tail (conclusion). Be mindful of the time and
structure of your talk.
Don't go overboard in one section and skate over others.
Engage the audience in your talk. Tell stories that everyone can
identify with. Pause after telling a joke.
Remember, this is not high school---there are no bullies. Your
audience wants you to succeed.
10. TIPS AND TRICKS
During the speaking event
Control your breathing. Take deep, steady breaths and relax
your muscles as much as possible.
Keep it simple. Minimize distracting details and do not go off
on tangents; stick to your outline.
Stand up straight; do not slouch. It makes easier to breath
and project your voice.
Vocalize properly. Focus on projecting your voice in a strong,
firm manner and work on pitch and tone that are in normal
range.
Relax and be as calm as possible. Your audience will enjoy
your speech if you are not visibly nervous.
