10 Tips for effective public speaking…
1. Get their attention
Start off strong by doing or saying something that will spark people’s interest!
2. Get the data
Support all your claims with evidence, cite research & statistics that help prove your argument (if the data does not clearly support your argument, argue morality [right vs. wrong])
3. Choose topics your audience would care about
Know who your audience is, and talk about the things they would be most likely to care about…
4. Use “story points”
Tell stories that make your point (people love stories!)
5. Quote the experts
Use quotes from experts in the field, from reliable, respected sources
6. Repetition equals retention
The more times you say it, the more likely they’ll remember it
7. Know your “talking points”
Be able to quickly summarize your entire message in 1, 2 or 3 brief bullet points (in case you only have 5-10 seconds to convey your entire message, like in a Q&A situation)
8. Don’t hesitate to enumerate
If you want to be absolutely clear about what you are about to say, it can be effective to start by saying how many reasons/arguments/facts you are about to give…”There are 3 reasons why we should change this law. The 1st reason is…”
9. Be interactive
Keep people’s attention by getting them involved. Ask the audience questions or take informal polls during your talk.
10. Practice makes perfect
Practice, practice, practice…rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. It will make you more comfortable and confident when the time comes to speak…and your confidence will make the audience tune in closely…
1. Get their attention
Start off strong by doing or saying something that will spark people’s interest!
2. Get the data
Support all your claims with evidence, cite research & statistics that help prove your argument (if the data does not clearly support your argument, argue morality [right vs. wrong])
3. Choose topics your audience would care about
Know who your audience is, and talk about the things they would be most likely to care about…
4. Use “story points”
Tell stories that make your point (people love stories!)
5. Quote the experts
Use quotes from experts in the field, from reliable, respected sources
6. Repetition equals retention
The more times you say it, the more likely they’ll remember it
7. Know your “talking points”
Be able to quickly summarize your entire message in 1, 2 or 3 brief bullet points (in case you only have 5-10 seconds to convey your entire message, like in a Q&A situation)
8. Don’t hesitate to enumerate
If you want to be absolutely clear about what you are about to say, it can be effective to start by saying how many reasons/arguments/facts you are about to give…”There are 3 reasons why we should change this law. The 1st reason is…”
9. Be interactive
Keep people’s attention by getting them involved. Ask the audience questions or take informal polls during your talk.
10. Practice makes perfect
Practice, practice, practice…rehearse, rehearse, rehearse. It will make you more comfortable and confident when the time comes to speak…and your confidence will make the audience tune in closely…
