The Top 5 Public Speaking Questions Answered

There are a number of questions that we consistently get asked in relation to public speaking and presentations. Here are a few of the most common questions, along with our answers:

1. What if the main decision maker is suddenly called away or taken ill and can't attend the meeting where I am due to present?

What at first may seem like a major disaster is actually nothing of the sort. By being adaptable, you can tailor your presentation to the rest of the audience, and ask them to convey one or two key points to the decision maker later. Emphasise those key points to ensure that they thoroughly understand them.

2. What if my projector and presentation end up in Houston when they should have been on the same flight as me to Orlando?

Rent a projector locally, either from the hotel or from an audio-visual company listed in Yellow Pages. As for the presentation, foresight and preparation would mean that you carried a backup with you in your hand luggage.

3. How many times should I read through my speech before presenting it?

This is one of those 'how long is a piece of string' type questions. The answer is, as long as it takes for you to feel comfortable at presenting it. For some people it will be one or two times, others may need five or six readings, or even more. There is no substitute for preparation and practice.

4. I have seen some speakers and presenters who like to walk about in the audience, what is your view of this?

Everyone has a different style, and there is no right or wrong with this technique. It really comes down to what works for you, and what is most effective for the audience. If you gauge that an audience is uncomfortable with it then it's best to stop, but some audiences seem to enjoy it, especially if it sets the speaker apart from others in a long seminar.

5. My mouth dries up very easily and I find that within five or ten minutes of presenting a long talk, my mouth is very dry. Is there anything I can do?

Some people do suffer with this condition through no fault of their own, even some experienced speakers. The answer probably sounds obvious, but you need a drink! When you arrive in the room, place a glass of water on the podium so that you can take a few sips when you need to during your talk. Just the reassurance that the drink is there can help too. Don't worry about how the audience might view you, it is perfectly acceptable to do this._______________________________________________________________

Paul Daniels is often described as The Johnny Carson of England. In his home country he is a household name due to his more than 20 years of prime-time TV shows that have been broadcast to 41 countries. Paul's course: The Stress Free Guide To Public Speaking and Presentations is the International best selling speaking course - visit: http://www.stressfreepublicspeaking.com for more information.

---

To Insure Success in Speaking: Anticipate

We all know that to be a careful driver on... Read More

How Authors Can Get a Free Promotional Tour

I was a celebrity lecture agent in the college and... Read More

13 Publicity Tips for Professional Speakers

In a funk because other speakers seem to be snagging... Read More

Speak in Public! Who Me?

The first time I had to speak in front of... Read More

Ten Speech Tips for Writing Powerful and Persuasive Presentation

Have you ever had to give a speech?Do you remember... Read More

Top 7 Tips for Speakers

Public Speaking is the number one way to advance your... Read More

15 Ways To Keep Your Speaking Inspiring and Creative

When stressed or blocked it is wise to make a... Read More

Timing - Why You Should Never Go Overtime with Your Presentation or Speech

In a conference setting, nothing annoys audiences more than talks... Read More

Getting Results from Your Writing & Speaking

When we communicate, we usually want something to happen. We... Read More

Speech Training - Building Your Voice, Tips from a Professional

Having a clear and confident voice is an essential business... Read More

Make Your Talks Pay: Have People Stand In Line Eager Give You Their Business Card

If you've ever been on stage, doing a talk or... Read More

Analyzing Your Audience and Assessing Comprehension Through Feedback

Aside from fielding and asking questions, there are other ways... Read More

How to Give a Speech Without Dying

Two of the top fears of most people are dying... Read More

Let Your Appearance Speak for You, Not Against You!

Every 7 seconds another baby boomer turns 50. What does... Read More

A Perfect Meeting: AKA When You Dont Want to Strangle the Speaker

Have you ever worked for weeks or even months, often... Read More

Conversationally Speaking

"Would you like to say a few words?" How many... Read More

Top 7 Ways to Succeed in the Business of Speaking

How attractive are you as a speaker? No, your looks,... Read More

Pay Attention To Your Appearance!

During the coffee break of one conference I attended, whispers... Read More

10 Worst Tips To Give A Speaker

1. Learn the speech by heart or read it from... Read More

Take The Fear Out Of Public Speaking

You're a bright, dynamic executive. You've been scheduled to give... Read More

Start Conversations as Easily as You Start a Car

Starting a car is easy. Put the key in, turn... Read More

Tips For Keeping Your Cool Before Your Presentation

Stretch to relax. Rise on your toes and reach for... Read More

Demand Dignity in Public Speaking Training

Mandy*, a bright, attractive professional woman, had a fear of... Read More

Speaker Partnership Offers Trade Show Value

Want to gain added exposure at a trade show? Consider... Read More

The Ps and Qs of Public Speaking

Avoid the painWhich would you prefer - root canal dental... Read More

Performance Feedback: Why Were Scared and How Not to Be

Effective communication is not a one-way street. It involves an... Read More

Lose Stagefright Over Your Lunch Hour

While teaching a two-day Speaking Confidence program to a group... Read More

A Quick Tip for Delivering a Great Speech

Does speaking in public leave you tongue-tied? Do you stumble... Read More

What is Public Speaking?

When we talk about public speaking, we usually think about... Read More

How to Gracefully Leave After a Seminar or Speech When Someone is Hogging Your Time!

Meeting planners know the value of meticulous planning. They are... Read More

Giving Your Audience Great Benefits

What benefit do you provide the audience?People should listen to... Read More

Youre Making Me Nervous

Almost everybody is nervous when they stand up to speak.... Read More

Public Speaking: Getting the Room Set-up Right

I don't know why it is, but no matter how... Read More