Guidelines on How to Deliver an Effective Speech
The effectiveness of a speech very much depends on the confidence of the speaker. Problem is the fear of speaking is often right up there with the fear of heights and spiders for some people. Speaking clearly, making eye contact and using PowerPoint presentations or figures contribute to an effective speech. If you have a big speech coming up, go over some basic speech etiquette to ensure that you are effective in your delivery.
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Instructions
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Practice your speech many times.
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Memorize your speech so you need note cards only for reference. If you tend to get nervous, it may help not to have anything in your hands, as they may start to shake and make you even more nervous.
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Make eye contact with your audience. Look around the room while you are delivering your speech and engage the audience.
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Be excited about the speech that you are delivering. If you sound bored and speak in a monotone voice, your audience will become bored.
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Use humor to lighten the mood. Throwing in a quick joke will keep your audience's attention and help calm your nerves.
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Avoid any signs of nerves. Do not fidget with anything. Pay attention to your speed and don't use filler words such as "like" or "um."
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Maintain good posture. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder width apart and your hands to your sides, unless you are using them to gesture. Do not cross your arms or put them behind your back, as this creates a barrier between you and your audience.
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Use a PowerPoint presentation or figures to go along with your speech, but do not read them. This will engage your audience and loosen your nerves by taking some of the focus off you.
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Keep it short and to the point. Don't ramble on and on or your audience will lose patience.
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Close your speech by thanking the audience members for their time.
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References
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