Ways to Improve Public Speaking
Public speaking is hard for many people. The idea of getting in front of a group of people and speaking alone can be terrifying. However, the experience does not have to be a bad one. There are many ways to improve public speaking skills that will boost your confidence and lead to a better presentation.
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Practice
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The best way to improve public speaking skills is to practice. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself speaking and play it back, perform for family and friends and take as many speaking engagements as possible. The best way to improve something is to do it often. When you practice for others or with a tape recorder, you can eliminate problem elements, such as nervous habits, a rapid speaking pace or poor enunciation. The more you speak, the better you will be at it.
Organization
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Organization is another important key to performing well as a speaker. You should have several clear points in mind for every speaking engagement that you do. Even while speaking to introduce someone else, you should have points, such as the speaker's background and a funny story about that person. Come up with about three or four points per speech. A basic outline helps facilitate the entire speech. In most cases, if you have an outline, you don't really need notes.
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Eye Contact
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One problem with amateur speakers is that it makes them nervous to look at the audience. If you look at the floor, the back wall, the ceiling or your hands or feet it can undermine the significance of your speech. Try to look at the audience while you speak to connect with them. You can sweep your gaze over the main group of the audience, or look at specific people in the audience. Avoid looking at the same person over and over.
Movement
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Try to have natural movements while you speak. If you stand in one spot the entire time with your hands at your sides, behind your back or in your pockets, this can undermine the effectiveness of your speech. Use natural gestures to illustrate points, and move around a little on the stage. This does not have to be dramatic, but it should look like you are comfortable in front of an audience. Practice natural movements and gestures at home to make that movement natural.
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References
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