Public Speaking 101

Public Speaking 101

By: Dr. Rolando M. Ochoa D.B.A.

?

As an audience member, I often find myself inwardly cringing when subjected to a speaker lacking the finesse of public speaking. Why subject oneself to such discomfort? Is it the assumption that speaking in public is a breeze? Is it a genuine desire to assist others? Perhaps it stems from confidence in the subject matter or a longing for recognition and validation.

?Effective public speaking requires honed skills across various dimensions of the craft. My journey toward proficiency began in college classrooms, where I delved into the theoretical underpinnings. Practical experience followed suit, as I took to the stage as an actor and entertainer. Over 30 years teaching at the college level, helped me understand how preparation was the key. However, it was my tenure with Toastmasters International that truly refined my abilities. Through rigorous coursework and dedicated practice, I emerged equipped with the tools to engage, inform, and inspire audiences. Let me share with you some ideas.

?Preparation:

?Standing before an audience without preparation isn't just egotistical; it demonstrates a lack of regard for those listening. Effective speech delivery demands meticulous groundwork: crafting, refining, timing, rehearsing, and structuring. Once confident in your material, condense key points onto cue or index cards, serving as guiding beacons during your presentation. Addressing an audience without such aids implies an air of self-importance, as if all-knowing. The length of your speech must be controlled. Omit unnecessary repetitions that make your speech boring and long for no reason. Consider that the time of the audience is as important as your time.

?Numbering these cards ensures seamless recovery should they slip from your grasp. Authenticity is key; reading your speech verbatim suggests insincerity. Share personal anecdotes not by reading them directly, tell them infusing authenticity and connection. Important details like statistics or quotes warrant inclusion on these cards, safeguarding against errors while reading them.

?Give your speech to a trusted confidant as a sounding board—a relative or close friend—who can provide invaluable feedback. This collaborative approach ensures your message resonates authentically and effectively with your audience.

Delivery:

After you are introduced:

• Extend gratitude to the individual who introduced you, fostering a connection with your audience from the outset.
• Assess the microphone volume, ensuring clarity of your voice. If adjustments are necessary, liaise with the sound technician for optimal amplification. It is better if the volume is high. You can control it by getting closer or farther from the head of the mike.
• Guard against "Rollercoaster speaking," wherein fluctuating vocal intensity disrupts audience comprehension. When we get emotional, we tend to speak softer. Maintain a consistent volume, adjusting microphone proximity to modulate your voice effectively.
• Speak, not as you would do in a living room conversation, but enunciating the words clearly. If you are reading to the audience, do it, not as if you were reading to yourself, do it with a firm delivery.
• Engage your audience with an anecdote or captivating opening passage, setting the tone for your presentation.
• Provide a brief overview of your speech's format and topics to be covered, guiding your audience through the upcoming discourse.
• Encourage audience members to reserve questions until the conclusion of your speech to prevent disruptions and maintain focus.
• Establish eye contact with your audience, varying your visual perspective to engage all attendees personally.
• Minimize excessive hand gestures to prevent distractions, allowing your words to take center stage.
• Position the microphone directly in front of your mouth, maintaining consistent perpendicular alignment with the head of the mike for optimal sound transmission. If you turn your head, move the mike accordingly.
• Conclude your speech with a succinct summary of key points, expressing gratitude for the audience's attention and participation.
• If appropriate, invite questions from the audience, fostering dialogue and deeper engagement.
• Admit if you're unsure of an answer, committing to follow up later with the necessary information.
• Remain at the podium or lectern until properly relieved, acknowledging the next speaker with a handshake before departing. Ensure the platform is never left vacant, maintaining a seamless transition for the audience's benefit.

?For those embarking on or enhancing their public speaking skills, I wholeheartedly recommend considering a course with Toastmasters International or joining a local club. No matter the importance of your message, capturing and retaining the audience's attention is paramount to its impact and success.