At some point in life, it is likely that you will be required to speak to a small or large audience. From hosting events to making presentations in school, colleges .
Often people are afraid of speaking in public and it is said that the fear of public speaking in some people outstands the fear of death!we are worried of how the audience will react , what will they think. Here are some strategies to improve public speaking skills.
1. Prepare Thoroughly
The first step is to be clear about what you want to speak about and what points you want to focus on. Preparation includes structuring the speech and identifying points of interest to the target audience.
2. Watch videos of Great Speakers
Many videos by great speakers can be found online. Watch them and you will notice their strategy, ways of speaking and what makes them good speaker . It will help you know how to win the attention of the audience
Former U.S. President Barack Obama, Dananjaya Hettiarachchi (winner of public speaking championship), Dr Vivek Bindra, Sandeep Maheshwari are few noteworthy speakers.
3. Practice is the Key
Any task is incomplete without practicing. Make sure to practice in front of mirror. It will help you to focus on your hand movements and you can introspect yourself. Also practise in front of family, friends to get rid of nervousness.
4. Start Strong
The beginning of your speech should be most powerful because it forms the basic of what you will talk about further.
5. Focus on Your Audience
It is very important to know your audience , their preferences, age group and their reason for being present there.
6. Engage with your Audience
Nothing captures the attention of people more than engaging conversation. Keep them involved by asking questions and giving them a chance to speak and put forth their views. This will keep them alert and interested.
7. Body Language
While speaking it is important to maintain a positive body language with a straight back and upright shoulders, which shows that you are confident. Maintaining eye contact is also a crucial way to communicate with the audience.
8. Don’t forget Proper Pauses
Speaking with proper pauses can have a great impact on audience. It is a great way to make the content strong and motivational. Talking fast will make you look nervous and cause fumbles.
9. Articulate Clearly
While speaking in front of audience ensure that your words are loud and clear for people to hear and understand. Those who have poor pronunciations and can’t articulate clearly, can look up facial exercises on internet which will help in clear pronunciation of words.
10. Relax and Breath
Before starting, it is important to relax your muscles and take a deep breath to avoid anxiety. If possible try to meditate at least for 5 minutes before holding a mike.
The best public speakers in the history of the world faced many problems at the start but with perseverance and practice they went on to become the best.