Definition of the Art of Public Speaking
The ability to give a good speech is a skill that can provide you with a competitive edge in today's hyper-competitive business environment. It will also make you more confident in any type of presentation situation, such as at weddings when you have to make a toast or a short speech.
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Function
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You should be concerned not only with what your speech might say, but with what your speech can do. A good speech can motivate employees, rev up a sales team, spark interest in a new service, launch a successful campaign and clarify real issues. A good speech is a cost-effective marketing and public relations tool.
Skills
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A public speaker must overcome fear, lack of self-confidence, poor concentration and trying too hard. One of the fundamentals of public speaking is learning to "let it happen" (trusting your innate ability and building trust with your audience). Gradually build awareness by discussing experiences and events related to your topic. Many issues seem abstract to the audience without proper examples.
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Audience
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First, analyze your audience. Ask yourself these questions: Why are these people coming to hear you speak? How much does the audience already know about the subject? Where did they get their information? How much more do they need or want to know?
Research
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Think like a reporter. Go through your files; leaf though magazines related to the subject; consult with friends and business associates. Call up specialists in the field and ask for comments. Consult reference librarian from your research library.
Features
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Leave out irrelevant details and any information you can't verify. Make some rough notes. Write down important facts, opinions and examples. Make you speech simple and short. The standard formula for a successful speech is as follows: Tell them what you're going to tell them (introduction), tell them (main body of speech) and tell them what you've told them (closing).
Topics
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Approach the topic from the audience perspective. Your audience will understand your subject only by relating it to their own ideas, problems and experiences. Relate your concerns to their concerns. Find an emotional "hook" that will help the audience understand your message.
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