Becoming an Effective Public Speaker

Dear Carnegie Coach:

I need to give an important presentation in a couple of weeks. I don’t have much public speaking experience and just thinking of speaking in front of a group people makes my stomach turn upside down. What are some techniques that could help me overcome this fear? I don’t know where to begin.

- Linda

Dear Linda:

Even the greatest public speakers get nervous before giving important speeches. Some planning, along with applying proven techniques, will help you present like a pro. Follow the below steps and you will be on your way to deliver your message effectively.

1) Outline main points. Organize your thoughts in the form of an outline. Knowing when to say certain things will help you make good transitions and avoid repetitions.
2) Know the topic well. When you understand what you are talking about, you deliver the message better. This way if you forget what you meant to say, you can always improvise.
3) Don’t memorize the speech word for word. A memorized speech may sound stiff. To remember what you need to say, break the whole speech into sections and write the main points on index cards.
4) Practice. Before the actual presentation, practice with a friend, in front of a mirror, or even film yourself. Practicing in your head is different than saying the words out loud. When you practice you can make changes to the presentation until you feel comfortable and confident with what you are saying.
5) Make eye contact. When you make eye contact the audience will feel engaged in your speech. If looking at the audience makes you nervous, pick out objects above the audience’s heads and glance at them occasionally. The audience will not know the difference and they will feel involved in your presentation.