Now that the world has started returning to normalcy, in-person events and conferences may soon make a comeback. These four public speaking tips have helped me succeed in many of my professional endeavors so far and will help you knock your next speech out of the park, as well.
1. Seek Out Speaking Opportunities
The first and most important step to improving your speeches is gaining experience through various public speaking opportunities. Everyone has to start somewhere, so start small.
My public speaking career, for example, began in my small hometown of Trenton, Michigan. Our high school was the second in the country to have its own TV studio, so I capitalized on this, providing on-air entertainment for the station. This then led to becoming the master of ceremonies for school events and even acting in a few plays.
I took a break from public speaking in college, but once I started my professional career, I often spoke on behalf of the marketing agency I co-founded.
Eventually, I worked my way up to speaking at larger public events. Every professional conference, breakout session or ceremony I attended became a new opportunity for me to improve my public speaking. Here, I could introduce myself to organizers, hand them my business card and let them know I was available for hire.
You’d be surprised how many great speaking gigs you can land through sheer assertiveness, confidence and determination. While approaching the people in charge can be intimidating, it’s crucial to put yourself out there once you’ve built up enough experience.
Remember there’s no such thing as a bad speaking opportunity. No matter how large of a conference I’m presenting at today, many of my public speaking habits originated decades ago when I was cracking jokes during the morning announcements.
2. Prepare Your Speech
Whatever the topic of your speech is, it should be something you’re passionate about and well-versed in. Memorization alone won’t help you if the audience puts you on the spot with a tricky question. Plus, your speech will sound more natural and fluid if you’re comfortable with the content.
Make sure the topic you choose also resonates with your audience. To keep them fully engaged in your presentation, you’ll need to know what makes them tick. This requires a combination of logistical and emotional appeal, so you’re providing helpful answers while also inspiring them to act. Make sure to thoroughly research whichever industry your topic is targeted toward to find the right balance between the two.
Education and home building, for example, are two areas I speak about often. Getting a college degree and buying a home are a couple of the most important events in a person’s life, so pulling on the audience’s heartstrings a little is key.
However, these people also have bills to pay and are looking to grow their institutions and reach their financial goals. To provide the guidance they’re looking for, you’ll need to dive into sales techniques, numbers and stats to help get them to where they want to be.
With lots of research and a mix of emotion and logic, you can frame your speech in a way that leaves your audience on the edge of their seat.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
You’ve written your speech, but now you have to memorize it like the back of your hand. Rehearse in front of friends and family and ask for their feedback. Use your cell phone timer to set checkpoints throughout your script so you can track your time. Also, make sure to leave room for questions at the end.
Remember that sheer repetition is the key to success. You’re only truly prepared when you feel confident you could recite the speech in your sleep. If you’re still struggling, organizations like Toastmasters International or the National Speakers Association have great resources that can help.
4. Find Your Rhythm
Even after speaking in front of crowds for years, I would be lying if I said I didn’t still get butterflies right before presenting. The toughest part of any speech is getting through that first sentence or slide. So, focus on maintaining an air of confidence throughout your presentation, and the rhythm will come along with it.
As you present, keep these tips in mind:
- Maintain eye contact with one audience member at a time
- Avoid your notes as much as possible
- Pause occasionally to let the audience digest information
- Repeat your most crucial points
Keep in mind that the audience is always on your side, and they want you to succeed. Once you get past the initial nerves and awkward introduction, you’ll find that public speaking is one of the most worthwhile and rewarding challenges you could ever take on in your professional career.
Looking for more public speaking tips or want me to present at your next conference? Let’s chat!