How to Master the Art of Public Speaking

The ability to communicate has become one of the most needed skills in today’s world. The success of every interaction we have depends on our ability to either have meaningful conversations or communicate our ideas and values effectively. This applies to everything from private communication to public speaking.

Communication can be easy when it is just with a few people or people who are used to it. Public speaking communication or public speaking on the other hand is terrifying for most people. This is when we need to stand in front of a group of people and present our views, make a speech, or teach.

Public speaking is a scary prospect for most of us because it requires giving ourselves to an audience to be judged in real-time. The fear of rejection and failing is usually at the forefront of why most people shy away from public speaking altogether. This is understandable because not all of us are born with the ability to speak to a crowd.

It can be tough for a variety of reasons. Although it may be nerve-wracking, the ability to speak publicly and communicate effectively is becoming one of the most sought-after skills in the job market, across industries and disciplines.

Tips for effective public speaking

Effective planning

Most of the nervousness we feel before speaking publicly is a result of not planning. As much as you can make sure you know all that needs to be in place for you to give your best. This might mean visiting the venue beforehand to properly plan how you will conduct yourself in that environment. Planning will also include making sure that all your technical needs are taken care of so that you will not be rattled by any technical issues on the day.

Know your material

As much as possible, try to avoid reading but work from an outline. This will mean that you will have to put a lot of effort into knowing and understanding the contents of what you are to present.

This requires you to study and go over your presentation over and over again, so you are aware of the flow of content. Master the introduction, the body, and the conclusion well so you do not lose track. Knowing your material also helps in reducing the feeling of nervousness that comes with public speaking.

Know your audience

Taking time to know the audience before you are to present to them will ensure that you have a successful presentation. The work you are putting out is for them so you must get to know how to effectively communicate with them.

Different audiences have unique needs and respond to communication styles differently, so this information is vital. Knowing one’s audience beforehand also helps with connecting with them on a human level. Connection is vital in any presentation or public speaking engagement.

Dress to impress

Before you say anything, when you stand in front of people, the first thing they will notice is how you are dressed. That’s their first impression of you. Different dress codes will be required for different audiences, but make sure that however you dress, it shows that you made an effort.

We also feel more confident when we know we look nice. There is no standard way of dressing, your environment and audience will determine that, but make sure it is presentable.

Grab their attention

From the moment you walk on stage, or the online presentation is focused on you, it is time to grab your audience’s attention. This is not only for the opening, but also for engaging their attention throughout. Whenever appropriate, use humor, tell a story, or include interesting statistics to keep their attention and more able to follow your presentation or speech.

Watch for feedback

The audience will always give feedback. Watch out for their questions, body postures, and non-verbal and verbal communication to see if you need to adjust how you are presenting in real-time. This means that you need to be flexible enough to switch things up or change your presentation style when you deem it necessary.

Be confident, relax

This is easier said than done, but, looking confident goes a long way in grabbing the attention of those you are speaking to. If you are feeling nervous, take breaks, ask questions, and involve the audience until you regain your composure. Relax, speak normally, and always breathe to relax.

We are here to help

Being asked to present in public can be daunting for most people. If you have read the above and need further assistance, reach out for help. Our online directory includes a team of Counsellors and Therapists who will help identify the source of your fears and help you with healthy coping skills.