3 Tips for Better Speeches

Communicating with peers is one of the most natural things for many people, but for others, communication can be a nightmare. If you have trouble giving excellent, influential speeches, here are three tips to help you.

1. Use a speech outline

One of the most common mistakes that amateur speakers make is improvising their speech. In their head, they have this amazing string of words they will speak. In their mind, they see people being moved by the profound points they make. However, in a real-world setting, these kinds of speeches are rarely made without preparation. Making a speech outline will help you stay on topic. You may even want to include special notes, such as key phrases and how much time you will spend talking about each point.

2. Practice in front of friends

Before you attempt your speech at a public event or conference, you should perform your speech for your friends and family. Make sure your friends are truthful in their critiquing. This will also help you gain some confidence and form an expectation of what your actual speech will be like. During your practice speech, look for any flaws in your performance. Perhaps you are fumbling around a particular point or fact. Make sure you make note of any trouble areas and improve upon them before your actual speech.

3. Record your speech

One of the most important aspects of a speaker is his or her ability to use body language. Your body language has to match what you are saying. If it doesn’t, your listeners will have a hard time believing what you are saying. Because of this, you should record your speech, and then play it back to see how you used your body language. While watching your recording, think to yourself: Would I be convinced by this speech? Are your points clearly made? Does your body language match your tone of voice? Are you losing interest five minutes into the speech? Make a checklist to help you determine your weak and strong points.

Excellent speakers can move the crowds and influence them. Use these three tips to help you become one of those excellent speakers.