Speech Worrier to Speech Warrior Part 1

I’m sure you’ve read advice on how to become a better public speaker. Classic counsel is to know your subject and practice your speech. While this instruction is considered timeless for a reason, I add this thought: Whatever. I’m taking these two as an automatic given. Here’s what you really need to appreciate, those subtle nuances most speakers never think to contemplate and use. Here we go.

1. Oral briefings by their name and nature are just that: brief segments of information transfer. Here, time limitations are paramount and you’re correct to offer data in a direct bottom-line format. If people seek clarification, they can press for details afterwards.In a professional presentation, however, avoid commencing with “I’m going to talk about ______”, or “My focus today is _________.” I recognize many speakers begin this way. Why? They haven’t realized the value of gaining the audience’s attention in a creative, inspired way. Capture attention and command my interest. Other than your appearance, your attention getter is your first attempt at making an audience impression. Offer a quick, descriptive narrative. Cite a startling statistic. Highlight an intriguing quote. Show a brief video clip. For example, my public speaking training begins by asking audience members to name speakers they consider exceptional. I’ll then show PowerPoint slides of famous presenters I consider noteworthy and most often, the very names proposed by my audience are the very slides I display. Common ground. Ah, it’s a beautiful thing.
2. Your visuals-all of them-are a nonverbal reflection of your professionalism and competence. The pictures of celebrated speakers discussed above are the best I could find. Crisp. Clear. Close-Up. I spent hours searching for the right images and I consider it time well-spent. What’s the point of having visuals that contradict an otherwise polished message? I’m sure you’ve heard speeches where you thought (1) this speech needs visuals for clarification or aesthetic appeal or (2) these visuals are poorly-done. Why’d they even bother? Exactly.
3. Interact with your audience! I understand that time constraints can curb possible interaction, but even brief contact adds spark and human interest to your topic. Indulge in a dialogue, not a monologue. Ask a question, perhaps “Will someone offer an example of great customer service they recently received?” Then-here’s the important part—wait. People need time to think. Some speakers (I’m guilty of this) feel uncomfortable with silence and launch immediately into the rest of their presentation. Allow time for contemplation. You may worry if you ask questions, audience members will use too much time in reflection, thereby cutting into your speech time. Here’s your solution: Approach an audience member or two before your speech begins. Disclose the question and ask if they’d mind brainstorming a response in the meantime. By the time you officially ask, their comment is quickly voiced and you confidently move onward.
4. Guide your volunteers appropriately. Perhaps someone helped you illustrate a concept at the front of the room. Maybe they engaged in a role play to illustrate a concept (making correct business introductions, for example). When you no longer need your volunteer, here’s your correct protocol. Say these simple words: “Thank you, Eve.” Result? (1) Eve doesn’t stand around awkwardly wondering if she should remain standing or return to her seat (an uncomfortable feeling), (2) Eve appreciates that you call her by name (always good etiquette) and (3) you sound classy and in control of the situation. It’s what I call a triple-win.
5. Understand that you’re responsible for the room set-up and seating arrangement. How do you want the tables and chairs arranged? Are there any “bad seats” in the house? Explore the room layout to ensure easiest visibility for all attending. Make necessary physical modifications. I will close window curtains if there’s a competing view outside or if streaming sunlight casts a glare on my PowerPoint. I’ll ask an assistant to close all doors when I begin talking. Result is two-fold: (1) people in other rooms are not distracted by my sound-traveling voice and (2) my audience’s focus isn’t diverted to anyone who passes by the door, a surprisingly common occurrence.Last week I presented to a Fortune 500 company for 2 hours and made an unfortunate mistake: I neglected to learn the lighting system by the screen. The light was then too bright for some of my slides to be easily viewed. I made it harder for my audience to decode my message and in so doing, I felt less competent. There is a silver lining, however. I won’t be making this mistake again anytime soon. Trial and error can be one of our best friends.

Don’t miss Speech Worrier to Speech Warrior Part 2!

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