Top 10 Public Speaking Tips!

Does the thought of public speaking terrify you? If you do you are not in the minority. Here are 10 very helpful tips to help you with your public speaking event or presentation.

• Plan ahead and work on your ending first as this clarifies your aims.
• Divide your speech into 3 sections: an engaging opening, a middle with no more than 3 key points and a powerful ending.
• Do not read from notes the whole way through use bullet points on an index card.
• Rehearse in front of a mirror or on camera is best, that way you can see your strengths and weaknesses then address and enhance them.
• Do not go power point crazy and send everyone to sleep
• Do some breathing exercises beforehand to help relieve tension and ease nervousness
• Look Good – Feel Good! Hold head high and keep shoulders back.
• Dress appropriately AND comfortably – e.g. don’t wear those killer heels or a too tight collar with tie!
• Slow down, look out at a few people in the eye and smile.
• Remember this is public speaking not a death sentence… you will survive!