Speech Tips

I hate being nervous when speaking. I would make sure that I had an ample supply of water available to soothe my ever-drying mouth; I would make sure that I had a portable microphone so I could walk around to minimize nervous energy. I would know my material like the back of my hand, by doing so I will come across as professional. I would arrive early to the location to where I am giving the speech. I will arrive early and walk around the room including the speaking area. I could stand at the lectern speak into the microphone; maybe walk around where the audience will be getting a feel for the room. If possible, I would greet some of the audience as they arrive and chat with them. It is easier to speak to a group of friends than to a group of strangers. Choose one member of my audience and dedicate my whole presentation to him or her. Just assume that not everyone else is paying attention. When someone asks me a question, change your focus to that person and answer the question as if the two of you are in a coffee shop chatting away. Isn’t that the most relaxing way to handle a crowd? I think these are some good ideas to get over being nervous. I scored higher than I thought I would, I know paying attention in a meeting or at a conference is rather easy but sometimes, the most insignificant things can distract me. I have seen many excellent speakers on the TED talks. A good speaker makes a considerable difference when someone is passing on a good amount of good quality information. I know if a speaker is not prepared and has a hard time, getting his point across, I can really become distracted or even uninterested. I remember learning how to be a better listener when I was in Boot Camp. The drill instructors really reinforced their techniques to make sure each series of Marines learned exactly what it was to become better than the class before you. Those methods would seem harsh and barbaric to those who would be looking from the outside but at the time, it made