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5 Cool Ideas™
for Improved Public Speaking
by Michael Angelo Caruso
The best way to improve your speaking skills is to listen to professional speakers on audio programs and in person. Sample my unique speaking style by listening to free audio clips and watching free video clips at EdisonHouse.com. I’ve delivered over 1,500 paid presentations, including seminars, training sessions and keynotes. Here are 5 Cool Ideas for improved public speaking that will improve your game no matter what kind of speaking you do.
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Meet the folks prior to talking with the folks.
This is an excellent way to build rapport and help the audience warm to you. You can greet people as they enter the room. If it’s a small group, you may wish to personally visit them at their seats. Shake hands and thank audience members for attending. Ask what they hope to learn from the program. This psychological rhythm will help you become a much more effective speaker.
- Smile at the beginning of your presentation.
Nervousness and anxiety will tug at your emotions, especially at the beginning of your speech. Remember to smile more than you normally would. In my early days of speaking, I would practice the beginning of my speech in a mirror. I would repeatedly greet my imaginary audience, each time giving the big smile I still use today. Be sure to let your voice smile, too. Use inflection and tone to demonstrate happiness and appreciation.
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Never
tell people that you’re nervous.
Let the audience figure out if you’re nervous. You’ve got limited time to convey your important message. Don’t waste time saying the obvious. I once attended a training session given by a fellow speaker. Prior to the talk, he intimated to me that he had stopped wearing neckties in favor of sweaters. During the first few minutes of his talk, he wasted time and possibly damaged his credibility by telling the audience that he was wearing a sweater instead of tie. Never dwell on the obvious. Also, avoid telling the audience that you’re new to public speaking or that you’re nervous. Let them figure it out. These comments can devalue your opinion and downgrade your authority. Hide your nervousness by minimizing your movement, especially early in the speech. Keep your hands out of your pockets, a sure sign that you are uncomfortable.
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Handouts can help deliver your message.
Give audience members a handout that explains how they can contact you. The handout can be a simple document highlighting your message. Your contact information will help people find you for future speeches.
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Stand at the exit door to say “thank you.”
At the end of the meeting, make a beeline for the exit door so you can say “good-bye” to audience members. This is a great way to personally thank people for attending your speech. On their way out, attendees will provide feedback, including compliments that will boost your confidence the next time you speak. Be sure to have business cards and a pen with you so that you don’t need to leave your post when providing an autograph or your phone number.
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