Public Speaking Fact Sheet – Key points to remember

The opportunity to speak to groups of people either in a work or social situation provides some people with the back-drop for being center of stage, but for many of us the mere thought of standing in front of a group of people and being asked to present or speak about a particular subject is enough to flood our minds with thoughts of fear and failure.

So what is the difference between the person who oozes confidence and many of us who have this fear of failing when asked to speak in public, and how similar are the two extremes?

Fear of failure is as common and as necessary as confidence. It is the fear that starts adrenalin rushing through our bodies, and it is this adrenalin if harnessed properly, that provides us with the energy we need to be successful.

The key to turning fear to you advantage lies around you being in control of the fear and not allowing it to control you.

Below are some key points to remember when you are asked to present to a group of people either socially or professionally.

Preparation

• Plan and structure the content of your presentation, This should include your introduction, core content and summary.
• Try to identify any answers to questions that may be raised at the end.
• Write down the key points you want to cover on card to be used if you lose track of the content. (Use card instead of paper as if you are nervous card will remain more rigid).
• Rehearse and if possible enlist the help of a friend or colleague.
• Record the presentation on tape and ensure that it does not run over the allocated time.
• Practise in front of a mirror paying particular attention to impact, posture, eye contact and hand gestures.
  

On the day

• Avoid alcohol before your presentation (it doesn't help you to feel more relaxed).
• Become familiar with the environment, go to the stage or platform and if possible imagine the room full of people and find a spot to initially focus your attention on.
• Do some voice exercises, raise and lower the volume of your voice, to help promote vocal clarity.

On the stage

• Before you start speaking, pause for a few seconds to encourage attention from your audience.
• Be aware of your breathing; try to take long deep breaths during pauses.
• Speak slowly and clearly taking time for natural pauses.
• Remember all the points you learnt when rehearsing and remind yourself that the most you can do is your best.
• Focus your gaze initially on a particular segment of your audience, later ensure you gain eye contact throughout the room.
• Be aware of your mobility on stage, slowly move around ensuring that you maintain the attention of your audience.
• Use hand gestures to emphasize and illustrate key points, try to ensure that your arms do not hang limply by your sides.
• At the end of the presentation, invite questions, once you have answered these thank your audience for listening and move confidently off-stage.