~If
possible, stand where you will be making your speech and examine your
surroundings (this allows you to get comfortable with the area).
~Practice
your speech and using the projector several times beforehand so you
will know what you're saying and how long it might take. This
will help with your nerves too.
~Be aware of your body language from
the moment you stand up until the moment your presentation is
completed. People will
believe your actions more than they will believe your words.
~Maintain strong eye contact so your
audience makes a connection with you.
~Don’t speak too softly, too fast, or
mumble. It is very important for your audience to be able to hear and
understand what you are saying.
~It is also important for them to hear
your
~Don’t slouch or hide behind a podium
or any piece of furniture. This will just show that you are nervous
and need some kind of security. If
you look like you dread giving the speech, your audience will dread
listening.
~Look like you're confident and sure of
yourself even if you are not by standing tall and smiling
pleasantly.
~It
is important for you to make eye contact with the members of
your audience. This way, people will believe that you are speaking to
them individually instead of a group of people.
~Take It Slow and Easy; when you are
nervous you tend to talk too fast. Likewise, don't have lots of
"uhhhs," "ums" or long pauses.
~Speak the Way You Talk. Don't
read or speak in a flat tone; that is sure to put your audience to
sleep.
~Your audience may express
disagreement, boredom or frustration and you should pay attention to
the signals they may send you. Don't rush ahead or look
worried. Remember, it's certain that a few people in your
audience will get bored or disagree with you (and every other
speaker), so you can expect that and accept it.
~Losing your audience's respect and
attention is less likely if you have an organized, interesting
presentation and follow the tips above.
