Fear Factor: Public Speaking III

Does the idea of speaking in front of people make you faint? Would you rather visit the dentist every day for a month instead of giving a keynote speech?  Does the thought of speaking in front of a roomful of strangers induce a powerful need to flee the country?

The good news is you’re not alone. The even better news is you can learn to be a better public speaker. This week, we’ll be visiting eleven tips to help you speak in public with confidence and poise. 

• Respect time limits.  This is where your practice will be key – run your speech a few times to get pacing and timing down so that you fit into the time slot allowed. Don’t go over. Don’t go under. Like Goldilocks, you want it just right.

• Backups. Make sure your presentation is backed up and that you have access to copies in multiple places. Email it to yourself. Put it on a memory stick. Whatever you need, just in case.

• Get there early. You’ll need time to get the lay of the land, meet the organizers and their teams, check A/V, and fend off potential problems. If you’re comfortable with the room, you’ll be able to deliver a more relaxed address. 
   
• Learn a new language. Body language is the top factor in how people will react to your speech. Above your words, above your pedigree, body language trumps them all. During your practice you can videotape yourself and catch physical habits like hair touching, shuffling, slouching, and lack of eye contact with your audience. 

This is just the beginning of your career as a great public speaker. The best way to get better is to practice so get out there and get speaking.