Before we begin in detail on how you want to Speak with Confidence, here are 20 Powerful tips that can help you to Speaking better.
Tip #1: Stand Up Tall
When we slouch, we appear to be smaller and can give away some of our credibility. Stand up nice and tall for the best results.
Tip #2: Smile To The Audience
Give a big smile to the audience. This helps to form a connection and can make them, and you, more comfortable before the speech even starts.
Tip #3: Do Your Research
Do some research, and do some more. You need to be the most knowledgeable about the topic in the room.
Tip #4: Practice Often
Go through and practice the speech at least five or six times until you are confident in it. Practice in a mirror, on a recorder, or in front of a trusted friend to get it right.
Tip #5: Use Your Hands
When done well, your hands can help to emphasize a point and improve the speech. Learn how to use them well.
Tip #6: Know The Bad Body Language Cues
Do not slouch, look at the ground, or wave your hands widely during the speech.
Tip #7: Avoid Filler Words
Keep the “likes” “ums” and “wells” at home.
Tip #8: Keep The Language Simple
Flowery language can seem impressive, but it may ruin your hard work. Keep the language simple and easy to understand.
Tip #9: Rework As Necessary
If something is not fitting or flowing, it is fine to drop it or rework it during practice.
Tip #10: Speak Slowly
Do not rush through the information to get the speech done. Think through the words and say them slowly.
Tip #11: Give Pauses
Pauses are your friend and give you time to think and compose your thoughts. Use them.
Tip #12: Maintain Eye Contact
Do not look out the door, at the ceiling, or at the floor. Look at your audience to form a good connection.
Tip #13: Wear The Right Clothes
Leave the sweatpants and bad jeans at home. Business casual is a good option here.
Tip #14: Choose The Right Tone
Consider the topic you are using and then adapt your tone to go along with it.
Tip #15: Make The Audience Laugh
Laughter is a great way to encourage connection and can make the speech better.
Tip #16: Know The Audience
Know your audience. This can help you structure the outline and use the right phrases and words along the way.
Tip #17: Visualize The Success
Visualize what is going to happen during the speech, the good and the bad, so there are no surprises later on.
Tip #18: Have A Good Introduction
You need to hook the audience in the first few minutes they hear you. Telling a story or a joke can be a good way to start this.
Tip #19: Own The Stage
Pacing and swaying are not good here, but you can move around the stage like you own it for the best results.
Tip #20: Know Your Material
The better that you know the material, the easier it is to relax. There are fewer potential surprises and even if you finish early, you still have plenty of material.
Let’s start with some of the details, continue reading here…