Some people thrive on the attention of an audience. However, the thought of public speaking strikes fear into the hearts of many. If you weren’t born with a bold gift of gab, talking in front of a crowd may lead to anxiety, hot flashes, and a shaking voice. Luckily, there are many tips you can use to become a better public speaker.
Use Your Passion
Speaking about a topic that you genuinely care about makes a difference. It allows you to project more confidence. For example, Mohamed Soltan became a human rights advocate and public speaker after he was a political prisoner. His speeches surrounding the subject are engaging and passionate.
If you must speak about a cause that you haven’t experienced first hand, do some research. Take the time to learn the background. Look for an aspect that matters to you and gives you drive.
Practice Your Skills
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect. The more speeches you give, the more comfortable and natural you will become. Start by recording yourself and assessing the video. Pay attention to your mannerisms and speech patterns to determine how you can improve.
Once you feel confident on your own, find small audiences. Friends and family members may be willing to help. Seeking out low-pressure scenarios such as community, church, or school events can prepare you for important presentations.
Study Your Influences
Many exceptional public speakers have come before you, and each one is unique. Take notes while you study videos, podcasts, and live events. It is useful to observe body language, audience engagement, eye contact, delivery, and relatability. Instead of trying to emulate one specific presenter, you should select and employ traits that work for you.
Prepare Your Outline
It is easy to step on stage and have your mind go blank. You can combat the phenomenon by preparing a well-organized outline. Be sure to consider the overall message you are trying to present and the key talking points that you need to touch on.
Unless you are 100% sure that you have your outline memorized in chronological order, bring a guide with you to your presentation. You may opt for something private such as notecards or cue cards. Visual aids, such as a PowerPoint presentation that the audience can follow, are also practical.
Consider Your Audience
No two audiences are exactly the same. The best public speakers can adjust their presentations to suit the situation. Before preparing your outline, make sure that you know the audience’s size, demographics, and level of knowledge regarding your topic.
Determining the setup of the audience also plays a role. Will you be on a stage or immersed in a crowd? Depending on the location and proximity of your audience, you may need to alter your movements and the way you engage with them.
Everyone has strengths and weaknesses. You don’t have to be ashamed if public speaking is one of your weaknesses because you aren’t alone. Following these tips will lessen your fears and improve your skills over time.
