Public speaking…
For some people, hearing those words strikes fear into their hearts.
How do the most successful speakers present their information so eloquently? Why are some speeches so entertaining and others just… aren’t?
Well…
Let’s find out…
Finding a Passion, Telling a Story
The best speeches involved in public speaking generally have some sort of personal story that accompanies them. These stories are normally what really “bring home” the main message.
Stories develop themes.
Some common speech and story themes include:
Relationships, Choice, Creativity, Celebration, Diversity.
Personal Qualifications
Public speakers come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. From: lecturers to grandparents, and mountain climbers to cancer survivors.
Having the opportunity to speak in front of others presents you with a unique sense of responsibility to give the audience something “new”. It gives you the pleasure of getting to inspire people and present them with a new way to see the world. You’re full of experiences that give you an individual perspective on the world. That is what qualifies you as a speaker.
You just have to know how to hone your skill…
The Best of the Best
The best public speakers learn to take their own life experiences, and even those of others, and retell them to audiences in a way that not only inspires them, but also teaches them a life lesson of some sort. They know their audience and use the appropriate tools in order to make a speech specifically suited for those they’re speaking to. They understand how to be concise without being considered dull or rude.
Be unique and charming. Live and re-live your story. Make sure you know your speech and be proud of it.
Timing is everything when it comes to story telling. Take time to breathe and clearly articulate exactly what it is that you’re trying to say.
Watch what other successful public speakers do and mimic them to an extent. Do they use visual aids? Use them too! There’s nothing wrong with making a story even better with pictures and even PowerPoint slides that outline your main points.
In Conclusion…
Be confident and proud of the story you’re telling. Pretend the audience is full of your friends and act as though you’re telling them a story you’re passionate about. Don’t forget to take a few breaths; it’s guaranteed that passing out in front of your audience is more embarrassing than pausing a second.
Pro tip: You’re going to be nervous, the question is: What are you going to do about it?
