Characteristics of Ineffective Public Speaking
Public speakers inform, persuade, debate and toast. Presenters spark laughter, stir compassion and persuade audience members to take specific steps. Sometimes a speaker's words leave his listeners feeling bored, confused or uninspired. Characteristics of ineffective public speaking influence an audience's perception of an orator, regardless of whether he is running for public office, convincing a jury of a defendant's innocence or sharing financial data with corporate executives.
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Material
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A weak public speaker bombards her audience with too many topics. Or, she inserts visuals such as graphics or flip charts into her program without explaining their relevance. Covering too many points dilutes those subjects. Instead, a successful lecturer sticks to two or three themes and offers examples, data and history to support those points. She recognizes that she is the main attraction of her program, not the visual aids. Her visuals complement her talk and are easy to read from the back of the room.
Delivery
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A presenter's personal delivery style impacts a program. Poor eye contact, a monotone voice and lack of preparation are ingredients for an abysmal speech. Another common goof is failing to connect with an audience. Public speaking goes beyond simply reciting information in front of a group of people. Instead, know your audience's demographics and needs in advance. Then, tailor your remarks and use a conversational approach, according to the Changing Tools website for professional speakers.
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Interest
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An ineffective public speaker neglects to infuse enthusiasm into his lecture. He omits techniques that grab attention, such as a strong opening line or stories that hold his audience's attention. Every presentation requires a "wow factor," such as a startling statistic or poignant examples, speech communications professor Stephen Boyd of Northern Kentucky University tells the School For Champions website. Boyd describes this as the quality that keeps spectators pumped throughout the program.
Professionalism
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Public speaking requires a professional demeanor and appropriate attire. An audience of farmers might feel uncomfortable if a guest speaker wore a business suit instead of casual clothing, says ChangingTools.com. Likewise, bankers expect more formal dress from a presenter. An insensitive statement or off-color joke also repels audience members. A seasoned speaker steers clear of humor, or uses herself as a target for laughter. These gaffes project the wrong image and sabotage credibility.
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References
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