Like it or not, at some point in our careers, it's likely we'll have to give a speech or presentation in front of a large audience. Whether it's a lecture at a major event, a sales pitch to win a top account, or a presentation to an internal audience, public speaking is an important skill to develop if you want to advance your career. . Now that we're all used to TED talks, expectations are higher than ever before. So, what can you do to shine in your next public performance?
1. Prepare, prepare, prepare
Unless you're a consummate actress, you can't get away with charm alone. There is no such thing as adequate preparation. Know your subject, practice in front of a mirror or, better yet, have someone record you so you can see yourself afterwards and discover the points you need to improve. If you're really prepared, you won't have to read your notes anymore; a big no-no by TED standards.
2. Be sincere
Success is partly due to being sincere. Show who you really are without limiting your personality.
3. Use humor
Humor makes everyone cry with laughter.
4. Become a storyteller
The most impactful speeches are those that use storytelling techniques. There is nothing more boring than someone giving disconnected information. Turn yourself into a storyteller and keep your audience engaged. It is especially attractive to use personal examples to keep your audience interested.
5. Be prepared to change direction
Study your audience carefully to discover possible signs of withdrawal. If you see them yawning, it's time to try something else.
6. Control your body language and speak taps
Use your hands and don't be static, but don't exaggerate the gestures. You don't want your audience to worry that you are suffering from anything. Control your spoken and vocal taps in the same way. No throat clearing, sniffing, growling, 'eh', 'like', 'you know' and so on, please.
7. What starts well ends well
The most powerful parts of your speech are the opening and closing, so invest your time working on these parts.
