Public Speaking Without Fear!

8 Ways to Make an Impact.

1. Make Your Message Clear

Research your subject thoroughly. Between 5 and 7 key points as maximum Ensure your speech follows a logical

beginning, middle & end Preparation is key to success!

If you fail to prepare, then be prepared to fail.

2. Master Your Nerves Visit the room of your presentation before the

session so you’re familiar with your surroundings.

Mingle with participants before the session. It will ‘warm up’ your thoughts.

Dress appropriately and comfortably. Use pause to manage pace and control Prepare well.

Smile and your body will relax.

3. Be Aware of Body Language

• Be aware of body language – yours & the audience’s. Adjust your delivery in response.• Move with purpose and control.• Introduce variation into the presentation

rather than a ‘talk at’.

Engage with your audience – look at them.

4. Keep it Interesting!

Keep your presentation simple. Between 5 – 7 key points on one overarching message.

Use visuals & media to support your points - video interviews, pictures, drawings.

Ask questions and receive audience questions with acceptance and openness.

Remember a good speech keeps the audience interested, but a great speech engages the audience emotionally and thoughtfully.

5. Stay True to Yourself

Be yourself at all times Present yourself in a manner to

suit the occasion - professionally and comfortably.

Don’t be a fake. Be honest and sincere in your opinions.

Be comfortable in being you and your audience will relax too.

6. When Things Don’t Go to Plan? Prepare for the unexpected eg power failure –

have summary notes to use The audience isn’t expecting perfection –

remember it’s live – use the unexpected with humour and confidence.

Visualise what you might do in this situation beforehand.

Stay Cool!

7. Make a Difference with your Message Your presentation is not all there is. You provide a fragment

of information to tempt further engagement with the topic. It’s not over when your speech is done. Your message should

provide opportunities for further discussion or investigation. You can provide further information of reading materials,

related topics or opinions to explore.

You have the chance to present information in a memorable and interesting way.

8. You Don’t Have to Do This on Your Own!

Watch and learn from others. Join public speaking groups or professional

associations Get help from a coach!

Good luck and have fun!

About the Author:

Dianne is Director and Executive Coach with Rowe & Co Global Search Consultants.