How to Deliver a Speech

Mastering your tone and body language is the formula for a successful delivery.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Briefcases
• Index Cards

1. Approach the podium confidently and put your notes in a place where you can see them easily.
2. Stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Look at the audience, pause and begin speaking. If there is no microphone, project from your diaphragm, not your throat.
3. Set the tone in your introduction with appropriate facial expressions and diction, and a specific mood (such as folksy or hard-hitting).
4. Make eye contact with people in different parts of the audience, including the back row.
5. Pause briefly after you state key points to allow the audience time to absorb the information. Also, use natural and relaxed hand gestures and facial expressions to emphasize certain points.
6. Pronounce your words clearly and vary your rate, pitch and volume to keep the delivery lively.
7. Refresh your memory by periodically glancing at your notes, but avoid reading from your notes directly unless you are reading a long quotation.
8. Close your speech by thanking the audience and then confidently exiting the stage.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice! Videotape yourself to discover distracting habits such as swaying back and forth, saying 'uh' and 'um' too often, or making nervous gestures.
• If you stumble on a word, it's a sign you should slow down.
• While preparing your speech, make your notes easy to read by writing them in large, neat letters.
• If you need to test a microphone, using your voice is the best method. Aggressive blowing or tapping can damage the delicate internal parts.