Why should you upgrade your public speaking skills? These skills will help you advance your career and increase your confidence in social situations. Follow these tips on how to prepare and deliver memorable presentations that will make you a hit with your audience.
Preparing for an Effective Presentation
Know your topic
First and foremost pick a topic that you already know and love. Practicing with a topic that you are extremely familiar with will upgrade your public speaking skill. However, if you need to present a new subject, make sure you thoroughly research it including facts, statistics, interesting anecdotes, and quotes from experts.
Know your audience
If possible, identify the background and size of the group you’ll be addressing. Especially, how well informed they are about the material you’ll be presenting. You don’t want to talk over their heads, but you don’t want to talk down to them either. It’s also helpful to know their average age and other characteristics.
Keep your purpose in mind
Most presentations seek to persuade, educate or entertain so focus on what you want to achieve. For example, you may want to motivate clients to sign up for a new service your company is offering. By the same token, you may want to help your employees understand changes to your company’s health insurance plan.
Organize your presentation
Construct a powerful opening and closing. In fact, you should have a checklist for all the main points you want to cover. Adjust your content to your time limit so you can address everything without feeling rushed.
Prepare visual Aids
Liven up your speech with visual aids. Use them to reinforce your main message. Simple designs using large typography and bullet points work well for most audiences.
Practice
Your public speaking skills will improve with practice. Rehearse your speeches aloud. Take advantage of opportunities at work to get more experience. You can also join an organization like your local chapter of Toastmasters. They’re a nonprofit entity specifically designed for members to give each other friendly advice and support on public speaking.
Upgrade Your Public Speaking by Delivering a Compelling Presentation
Engage your audience
Make a connection by greeting people you know or introducing yourself to early arrivals. Establish eye contact and ask for volunteers. If the size of the group and time permits, encourage questions and dialogue.
Vary your tone of voice
Adjust your tone of voice to the emotional content of your words. Repeat key points or emphasize them by speaking louder or more softly. Vary your pace as you speak and use pauses strategically. In fact, a dramatic pause will build anticipation and engage the audience.
Tell stories
Interesting stories make any topic more entertaining and memorable. Share your personal experience or journey. If you are genuine an sincere, shareing your experiences will build rapport with your audience. Vivid examples work wonders in bringing your message to life.
Move around
Get from behind the podium. Use a handheld microphone and a remote control with your PowerPoint slides so you can circle the room freely. Well-timed hand gestures can also help you appear more dynamic.
Use appropriate humor
Work on your timing to deliver funny lines effectively. Play it safe and avoid anything that could be considered offensive.
Relax
Impress your audience with your competence and confidence. Conquer any nervousness with relaxation techniques like deep breathing or visualization. Focus on serving your audience rather than being distracted by your fears. Remind yourself that every presentation is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Solicit feedback and network
After any speech, get the full value out of your speaking engagement by asking for feedback. Furthermore, you should have evaluation forms ready for any public speaking experience. This way, the audience can provide constructive criticism. Review these evaluations after every speech so that you can sharpen your performance. Use a visual aid to display your contact information and website, and include that information on any handouts.
Public speaking is a valuable tool for many business and social gatherings. Improve your presentation skills so you can effectively share the benefits of your experience and knowledge with your audience. Do you have a fear of public speaking? Read this post to overcome your fear.
