7 Tips for Effective Public Speaking

Many people routinely give speeches in the course of their work or at various functions. Others do so occasionally and might not be very comfortable. They may even experience a great amount of anxiety. There are many books, classes and courses on the subject, but I've discovered some basic elements that will enhance one's speaking performance, regardless of the amount of education or training the person has received. Here are 7 helpful tips:

Tip for Public Speaking #1: Know Your Stuff

Make certain that you have a great amount of personal knowledge of your subject matter or firmly believe in your cause. This is actually a prerequisite. It will come across in your presentation, your confidence will project and you'll be perceived as an expert. If you really love what you're presenting, it will show.

Tip for Public Speaking #2: Be Organized

Have your material ready with the proper order of delivery. Using a general outline or slide presentation is fine, but this will be different than rehearsing what you're going to say word for word, which I'll explain below.

Tip for Public Speaking #3: Be Lighthearted, Have a Sense of Humor, Don't Be Afraid

I know that it's easier said than done and this is going to take some practice. Don't fear your own shortcomings and weaknesses. Use them to your advantage in any situation. Honesty can be very powerful and your ability to communicate with levity and sincerity will take you far.

Tip for Public Speaking #4: Care About Helping People

Focus upon helping the individuals in your audience. While it's usually easier and more comfortable to look off into the distance, get used to making eye contact with your audience members and convey your earnestness and warmth. This will also help you to perceive if you're coming across effectively and if they understand you. The more you're able to do this, the more you'll overcome your own anxiety and the more powerful speaker you'll become. This is truly the essence of a great speaker.

Tip for Public Speaking #5: Dress Well

Wearing suitable, tasteful attire will increase your confidence and give you added credibility. You don't need to overdress. Wear what's businesslike and comfortable, according to the circumstances or occasion.

Tip for Public Speaking #6: Consider Joining a Group

A club, such as Toastmasters could be a way of gaining speaking experience and might be valuable for a lot of people. I feel that it makes sense for those who need to develop their confidence and public speaking ability.

Tip for Public Speaking #7: Don't Write Word for Word or Rehearse!

This is closely related to tip #4 and it's called "speaking from the heart." Speaking naturally and spontaneously to the greatest extent possible goes against the grain of most conventional teaching. In our daily lives, our best presentations come not from planning what we're going to say when we get up the morning, but rather expressing what is true, honest and suitable for the moment. The best speakers are those who are genuine, but they are rare in this day and age. While it's fine to prepare the topics that are needed to be covered, it's best to speak naturally, instead of reading everything. To the extent one can do this, the better speaker he or she will become. I urge everyone to try this and to get used to doing it. Once you start to practice this method, it becomes more and more natural.

I wish you the best of success!