Techniques For Better Public Speaking
To ensure triumphant communication within a group, it is
essential to enhance your communication skills. Speaking in
front of an audience can be fun only if you are well prepared.
Here are some techniques that can help you improve your public
speaking skills.
* Make eye contact. It signifies your interest and desire to be
honest and credible.
* Posture and gesture are also effective ways to communicate
your message.
* Dress Appropriately. How you look is also important. Your
appearance should convey a message for dignity and respect.
* Be conscious of other people's space.
* Keep your message understandable and straightforward.
Remember, "Less is more." Clarity is important because it
affects all areas of your message. Avoid using jargons. Use
words that your audience can understand.
Why "Less is more"? First and obvious, is to avoid information
overload. Speaking involves great concentration. If you provide
too much information, chances are your audience will not listen
to you anymore. Second, clarity and pausing allows your audience
to understand and acknowledge what you are saying.
* Be prepared. Remember the 6 W's: Who? - Determining your
audience's age, gender and interest are among the ways you can
classify them.
What? - What topic would you like to discuss? Usually, when you
get an invitation to speak in public, follow their theme and
purpose.
How? - How can you communicate your message? Language and
non-verbal cues are important. Proper choice of words helps your
audiences understand you better.
When? - Obtain a logical timing of your discussion. Learn how to
pause when necessary.
Where? - If you have time, visit the area where you will conduct
your speech. Determine the best seating arrangement according to
the type of your audience. You also need to consider the
temperature, space and lighting conditions of the area. Visiting
the area also helps you determine where to place your visual aid.
Why? - Convey the advantage and purpose the will gain if they
will listen to you. Preparing a list objectives can help you
narrow down the key points you need to emphasize.
* Do not overwhelm your audience with numbers and statistics.
You can put this information in handouts for easy reference in
the future.
* Use visual aids to support your message.
* Establish dialogue and rapport. Allow your audience to
participate in the discussion. You can also create rapport by
call your audience by their names.