Giving Presentations: Public Speaking Secrets in a Nutshell

A high level manager contacted me in a panic. He was upset that his supervisor had asked him to give an important presentation in three days. He needed help - fast.

Occasional speech-givers make many errors. Three that are very common are poor speech-writing, inadequate knowledge of the topic, and undeveloped presentation skills.

When writing a speech, think of it from the listener's point of view. Try to get the listener to be involved immediately, whether by telling an appropriate joke or story, reciting a statistic, or asking a theoretical question.

Explain why the information is of value to the listener. Will it help them improve their bottom line, play a better game of golf, understand foreign policy so they can explain it to their neighbors, or make the community safer? Why should they listen to you?

Organize the material with just a few main points. Is it clearly organized and within the time frames permitted? Are there stories, charts, or other attention-grabbing methods used? Is it interesting?

End the speech with a brief review of the topic, and one of many closing techniques. One is a clear call to action, whether the desired action is sending an e-mail, going to a community event or something else.

Know your topic well, especially if you are presenting to others who also know your topic. Prepare with additional resources you can include if needed. Think about probable questions you may be asked, and know the answers. If absolutely necessary, tell the audience you do not know the answer, but will get back to the person if he leaves you contact information. (Very few people will provide this.) Sometimes you can refer him to a more knowledgeable source, as well.

Presentation skills are enhanced with considerable practice. To overcome "stage fright", or at least reduce it, think of yourself as a teacher, not a "speaker". You know something the audience does not, which is why you are up there giving this presentation.

Practice using a tape recorder or other device. Listen to yourself. Do you sound knowledgeable, enthusiastic and clear? Is your pronunciation easily understandable? Is your contact information on your hand-outs (if you have any)?

the audience will be watching you as well as listening. If you are using visual presentation materials, are they easy to read and understandable? Do you look enthusiastic or at least comfortable?

There is much more to giving presentations well. The tips above, however, will make your next presentation more polished and professional. You only have one chance to make a great first impression. Be ready!

Katie Schwartz, CCC-SLP, is the owner of Business Speech Improvement (http://www.BusinessSpeechImprovement.com). A certified speech pathologist, she specializes in working with corporate employees on their speaking skills. Courses offered included accent modification, listening skills for managers, public/persuasive speaking, brainstorming facilitation, speech therapy, lip-reading training, and much more. Ms. Schwartz is an enthusiastic public speaker and the author of three books.

---

A Short Guide to Effective Public Speaking

Delivering an effective presentation to 20 or to 200 people... Read More

Speak to Be Heard and Understood

Use your voice to your advantage. One of your main... Read More

7 Sure Fire Ways To Overcome Stage Fright When Speaking Or Performing

Prayer or Meditation: If you're a believer you can pray... Read More

How to Prepare your Mind/Body to Give Great Speeches

Sure you have catecholamines ? all speakers do. (including Sir... Read More

How To Write Powerful Presentations, Speeches And Talks

Most of us get nervous about making a speech, whether... Read More

Executive Public Speaking for English as a Second Language (ESL)

Public Speaking is a challenging skill. It is TOUGH! For... Read More

How To Get Paid Every Time You Speak - REALLY!

For many, speaking or training is a full time business.... Read More

Giving Your Audience Great Benefits

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

Public Speaking:10 Simple Steps to Confident Speaking

1.Preparation The most important step in public speaking is... Read More

Knowing Your Boundaries

While delivering a speech, it is clear that we will... Read More

Shortcuts to Eloquence

You have probably had the experience of listening to a... Read More

Dont Judge an Audience by its Stare

Don't Prejudge A Situation: In the areas of emotions and... Read More

Ten Steps to Fearless Public Speaking

There is plenty of dubious material which suggests you can... Read More

15 Tips For Making A Great Speech

1. Listen to your internal dialog. 2. Visualize a positive... Read More

Get Real

Humans are born storytellers, but our education system doesn't help... Read More

The Porch Light* Method to Speaking Confidence

You know the feeling. Looking out at a sea of... Read More

The Ten Habits of Highly Effective Speakers

Successful speakers do not do all the right things all... Read More

How To Use Microphones

Microphones are designed to help your voice, not replace it.... Read More

Choosing a Hot Keyword: Advice for Aspiring Public Speakers

When choosing keywords, you'll want to stay away from using... Read More

Demand Dignity in Public Speaking Training

Mandy*, a bright, attractive professional woman, had a fear 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 Steps to Better Public Speaking

Whether you want to be a part time, full time... Read More

Pay Attention To Your Appearance!

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

What is YOUR Speaking Expertise?

Why do you have to be an expert when getting... Read More

Voice Coaching - Training Your Voice to Give Better Presentations

Picture a cool crisp autumn morning in the wide open... Read More

No More Stagefright - Have Fun Speaking!

7 Tips that calm and center you before your presentation:1.... Read More

Top 7 Tips for Speakers

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

How to Promote yourself as a Speaker on the Web

Why use the web for promoting your speaking engagements?Most people... Read More

Speakers Learn How to Define Your Niche

This is one of the hardest things speakers have to... Read More

How to Answer Questions Your Audience Will Ask

In elementary school, most of us asked questions which were... Read More

What Makes A Great Presenter?

Every day millions of people around the world make a... Read More

The Ps and Qs of Public Speaking

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

Speaking Body Language

I observed an almost surreal event when I was a... Read More