The number one way to improve your public speaking is...
prepare.
Now that may sound self-evident, but believe me, it isn't.
As any good trial lawyer will tell you, preparation is the key to winning cases.
Preparation is also the key to outstanding presentations-especially if you prepare using the following tips.
2.
Research your audience.
Who are they? What is the reason they come together? Why do they want you to speak? What common problems do they have? 3.
Know your objective.
This is sometimes difficult, but the clearer your objective, and what you want the audience to get from your presentation, the better your speech will be.
4.
Customize your talk.
Construct your presentation with that audience in mind.
You can do that in the introduction.
You can also create examples using their profession or problem to illustrate your points.
5.
Have a point of view on your topic.
We are inundated with information today.
We need guidance.
We need your expertise on the subject, your perspective as a knowledgeable person.
Tell us what you think and why.
This gives us a context for the information you present.
6.
Limit the scope of your topic, and limit your main points.
Usually three is the maximum number.
You want to be able to be specific and go into some detail.
If your topic is too broad that won't be possible.
If you have too many points, you won't be able to elaborate and give examples.
7.
Don't just tell.
Show, demonstrate, support, give examples.
The more concrete your information, the more you can illustrate it in ways that relate to this audience, the more receptive your audience will be.
8.
Open strong! That does not mean start with "Good morning.
" Especially don't go into the song and dance some presenters do, wanting the audience to give them a rousing "good morning.
" It's hackneyed and annoying.
The audience has gathered to listen to you, and they want you to capture their interest immediately.
They want you to get right into it.
Do that by giving them an important fact or figure, or by saying something that let's them know you know who they are.
9.
Speak to them, converse with them, but don't read your speech to them.
They want to know you.
They aren't interested in how well you write;they want to know you by the way you present.
10.
Involve your audience.
The days of lecturing to a group are gone.
You can ask them questions, tell them stories, have them do something.
The ways to involve them are many.
11.
Get a coach.
A good coach can show you how to construct your presentation so you remember your points without notes.
A good coach will show you how to improve your delivery so your listeners pay attention and are with you all the way.
A good coach will dramatically improve your speaking, for not only one presentation but for future speeches.
12.
Finally, practice, practice, practice.
I have acted on stage,and even when I knew my part cold, I rehearsed again before going on stage.
When I make a speech, no matter how well prepared I am, I still I practice.
By following the tips above, and thoroughly preparing, then practicing, you will improve your public speaking success.