Public Speaking

Good Public SpeakingProducts Relating to 'Good Public Speaking'

Good pulbic speaking is important if you want to be able to connect and communicate with your audeince. I have been involved in public speaking for over 12 years. To present your speech well, connect with the audience and communicate your points, good public speaking involves the following four things.

First, good public speaking involves an initial connection with the audience. This 'connection' is extremely important. If you don't 'connect' then it is not likely your audience will be open to what you have to say. The 'connection' I am speaking of can happen when you do the following things:

* make eye contact right from the start. Don't hang your head. Have your head up as you walk to the platform.

* smile as you walk to the podium. This communicates warmth to your audience.

* 'pan' the audience. Start in the middle, 'pan from the left, then back to the center, over to the right. That includes everybody...it is your chance to acknolwedge them. It helps you connect. Good public speaking happens when you 'connect' with your audience.

Second, good public speaking happens when you take time to prepare your speech. If you have not prepared...it will be obvious to your audience. The opposite is also true...if you have done your preparation it will also be obvious. Your audience will appreciate your hard work in preparing your speech and you will gain their respect.

Third, good public speaking happens when you use personal stories. This is a way that people relate to you. People love to ehar stories and the best kind to tell are ones that have happened to you. I have used stories about my kids to get my points across. Recently a person approached me in a mall where I was shopping with my wife and kids. He recalled a time I spoke a few years ago and he was a member of the audience. The one thing he remembered and recounted was the personal story I used about my children to illustrate a point. he said, "I loved that story and have never forgotten that point you made." Good public speaking involves sharing personal stories. (A word of caution...if you are going to tell a story about your family...be sure your spouse and children know and they "sign off" on it.)

Fourth, good public speaking involves using humor. People love to laugh. When people are laughing they let down their defenses. They are more open to hear you...especially if youa re able to effectively follow up with a serious point. If you choose to use humor make sure any jokes you use are appropriate.

For more practical help and insights on good public speaking go to www.trylifecoaching.com

Article Published: Friday 15th December 2006