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How to Become a Great Public Speaker

Do you aspire to be a great public speaker but don’t know how to go about it?

You may think speaking in front of a large crowd is a natural activity for certain people, but not you. This is not true. You just have to learn how to do it to become better.

So what do you have to know to become great in public speaking?

Preparation and practice are needed

While some people may spontaneously give a good speech, the essence of preparation cannot be overlooked. There is a possibility that such people have practiced and planned overtime and have grown good enough to give spontaneous speeches.

Planning is crucial when you have a speech to give. You have to take your time to figure out the best way to tailor your message to your audience. This includes thinking about the proper introduction that would grab the attention of your audience. It also includes crafting a reasonable conclusion that would re-echo your message in the minds of your audience, even after you leave the stage.

Think about the points you want to make. Also, think about how to best make these points. Practice is said to make perfect. You have to practice your speech or presentation out load before the day of your presenting your speech. You may practice with a family or friend and get feedback that you can use to further work on your speechwriting.

It is okay to be nervous

It is normal to be nervous when you are in front of a crowd of people. However, don’t allow the nervousness get to you too much. When presenting your speech and you feel nervous, learn how to control it. Take control and shine through your speech.

The audience is key

Ensure you know your target audience. It is not about preparing a killing speech. In fact, an essential aspect of speech writing is knowing your audience. You have to be aware of who is getting the message you want to pass across and structure your speech in a way they can easily connect with it.

As you try to familiarize yourself with your audience. It is important to always put your audience first as, without them, there is technically no one listening to you.

Outlining rather than full scripting

While most people tend to opt for full scripting of their speeches, outlining is usually a better idea, especially if you have practiced enough and improved your public speaking skills. It is not that scriptwriting is terrible. But it may look awkward when you start reading everything word-for-word without even taking a look at your audience. You may just be like a newscaster pouring out words that some people may not pay attention to or remember afterward.

You can outline what you plan to say and be spontaneous as you go. Outlining makes your presentation appear more natural, and you can focus on your audience. Outlining makes your voice natural and helps you maintain eye contact.

Make eye contact with your audience

This is a crucial rule of public speaking. Let your audience know that you can see them and feel how they feel. Making eye contact helps you to maintain the attention of your audience and see their honest reaction to your speech. When you make eye contact, it shows that you care, and you are engaged in what is being said to your audience. When addressing a large audience, don’t focus on just a single happy or familiar face, let your eyes move and look at every one. This will help your audience connect with you more.

Learn Constantly

The truth is you never stop learning no matter how good you become. Therefore, read books on public speaking and about great public speakers. Follow blogs of speakers and those on speaking. Take an online course. Read and learn. Watch videos on public speaking online. Also, watch videos of great speeches. Research and connect with other public speakers and learn from their experience. Learning from those with experience can help you to grow and become better.

Remember that as a public speaker, you have a message to deliver across to your audience. Therefore, know your audience and ensure they can relate to your speech. Also, don’t be worried about being nervous. Instead, prepare, plan, and practice how to deliver a great speech. The more experience and practice you have, the better you become. So practice often.

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