top tips

Here are some handy tips to help you improve your confidence and public speaking.

Building Confidence

Before you go out in front of your audience, if you have the chance, breathe in and out deeply for 30 seconds. This will build the oxygen in your lungs and, in addition to boosting your confidence, will help you speak better.

Avoid Filler Phrases

The use of filler phrases such as “er” and “um” are very distracting and can take the impact out of an otherwise flawless speech. These words are equally hard to overcome. The best way is to try and stop saying these altogether i.e. in your normal speech as well as public speaking. This can be done focusing on these words.

Being Heard

Make sure that your voice is loud enough to be heard, but do not shout. This is something that will come with practise. You will learn how to adjust your voice to the size of the room to ensure that your volume is appropriate.

Control Your Pace

Speed is possibly the most important aspect when it comes to voice control. Speak too quickly and your audience cannot keep up with what you are saying. Speak too slowly and your audience will quickly become bored.

Remember To Pause

The use of a pause is one of the most effective techniques to deliver a powerful speech. If you make a significant point in your speech, pause at this moment for effect.

Simplicity Is Key

Keep your language simple. The easier the words are for you to say and remember, the more naturally you will speak. A flowing speech with simple language is much easier to follow and understand than a speech with complex vocabulary.

Gesticulation

The use of your hands, body and face are so important when it comes to public speaking. A rigid body and no facial expression comes across as cold and no matter how good the speech, you will almost certainly not connect with your audience. Gestures are crucial to a good speech.

Use Word Pictures

Rather than giving vague, colourless and bland descriptions throughout your speech, try and bring your content to life by allowing your audience to visualise what you are talking about in their heads. Include word pictures as often as you can throughout your speech.

“The practical nature of my lessons with John made it very easy for me to develop my skills as I was learning .”

ED, previous client

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