A well-structured speech is essential for delivering your message effectively and engaging your audience. But how do you know if your speech structure is clear, logical, and coherent? Here are some tips on how to evaluate your speech structure before, during, and after your presentation.
One of the best ways to evaluate your speech structure is to create an outline that summarizes your main points, subpoints, and transitions. An outline helps you organize your ideas, identify gaps or redundancies, and check the flow and balance of your speech. You can use different formats for your outline, such as bullet points, mind maps, or diagrams, but make sure it reflects your purpose, audience, and tone. You can also ask for feedback from someone else who can review your outline and suggest improvements.
Outlines are a great tool when used for organizing thoughts....my caution ?? *don't let structure constrict your message. When your motive and message align - it will come through your outline.
Another way to evaluate your speech structure is to pay attention to the signals you give to your audience to guide them through your speech. These signals include your introduction, conclusion, previews, reviews, signposts, and summaries. They help you establish your main idea, connect your points, and reinforce your message. You can use verbal and nonverbal cues, such as words, phrases, gestures, or pauses, to emphasize these signals and make them clear and consistent. You can also monitor the reactions of your audience, such as their attention, interest, or questions, to see if they follow and understand your speech structure.
An absolute must to land your speech is to constantly "read the room"! Audience connection creates the runway for your speech to "takeoff & land"! Plant check points in your speech for audience response such as: "raise your hand if ____" or "who has ever____" to measure audience connection to you and your message. If you are not connecting with your audience, be prepared with a personal story or a laughter prompt that will change the audience energy and create that "runway" connection for your sppech.
A third way to evaluate your speech structure is to review your performance and get feedback from others. You can record your speech and watch or listen to it later, or ask someone else to record it for you. You can also ask for comments from your audience, peers, or instructors, or use a rubric or checklist to assess your speech structure. You can look for strengths and weaknesses, such as how well you organized your points, supported your arguments, linked your ideas, and summarized your key takeaways. You can also note any areas for improvement and set goals for your next speech.
Proceed with caution when soliciting audience feedback - it can be crushing if you take it personally. I have found the best way to avoid the "hearts & darts" of positive and negative feedback is to see it like spaghetti thrown on wall ....look to see what sticks!!??
Evaluating your speech structure is not only a way to measure your effectiveness, but also a way to improve your skills. By analyzing your speech structure, you can identify what works and what doesn't, and learn from your mistakes and successes. You can also apply some strategies to enhance your speech structure, such as using a clear and simple framework, such as problem-solution, cause-effect, or chronological order; using relevant and credible evidence, examples, and stories to support your points; using transitions and connectors to link your points and create coherence; and using repetition and variation to reinforce your message and create interest.
Speech structure can be a yawn for those of us who want to bring energy to our audience ?? ....but I have found it a valuable tool to stay on point and not wander off topic when I'm having an "Energizer Bunny" moment of excitement during my speech.??
estructura del discurso puede ser un bostezo para aquellos de nosotros que queremos aportar energía a nuestra audiencia ??.... pero he descubierto que es un
Evaluating and improving your speech structure requires practice and feedback. You can practice your speech structure by outlining and rehearsing your speech several times, using different methods and tools, such as cards, notes, slides, or apps. You can also practice your speech structure by delivering your speech to different audiences and situations, such as friends, family, classmates, or online platforms. You can also practice your speech structure by seeking feedback from others, such as mentors, coaches, or clubs, such as Toastmasters International. You can also use self-evaluation tools, such as videos, recordings, or journals, to reflect on your speech structure.
Practice doesn't always make perfect. I have found that over-rehearsing your speech can sometimes deflate the message and flatten the delivery. What works for me is mastering the message and managing my motives. Knowing what key points your audience needs to benefit from your speech will help you build it. Concentration on your audience take away points is the cornerstone that will create exponential impact force in your speech structure. I like to imagine my speech as the initial vibrations that create a tsunami! It's what happens AFTER the audience leaves the room!
Evaluating and improving your speech structure can also be fun and rewarding. You can enjoy your speech structure by exploring different topics and formats that interest you and suit your purpose. You can also enjoy your speech structure by experimenting with different styles and techniques that express your personality and voice. You can also enjoy your speech structure by celebrating your achievements and progress, and recognizing the value and impact of your speech. You can also enjoy your speech structure by sharing your experiences and insights with others, and learning from their feedback and suggestions.