Mastering Public Speaking – 3 Tips to Become a Pro Speaker
Posted in Parent Category on September 2nd, 2010 by Maurice DiMinoFound this interesting article. I hope you enjoy it:
Learning how to master public speaking is something that takes time and practice. It is a skill that is cultivated with time, hard work, and lots of actual speaking in front of audiences. There are three main factors that go into being a pro speaker: charisma, controlling nerves, and mastery of speech content.
Here are three concepts to help master these aspects of public speaking.
1. Charisma building exercises
Charisma is the power to engage an audience and make them care about what you have to say. Charisma is something many people have naturally, but those who do not aren’t cursed. It is possible to build charisma through simple exercises. Practice speaking in front of a mirror, even if it is something as basic as repeating positive phrases to yourself such as “I am a good public speaker” or “I can do anything I put my mind to”. Eventually you should actually start delivering speeches in front of a mirror to get an idea of how you speak, and find aspects you need to improve in your speech and charisma.
2. Controlling your nerves
By controlling anxiety and nerves in front of an audience, you can become a much better and more convincing speaker. Nerves are the hardest part for a lot of people. One quick trick to control nervousness is to get a pen cap or small sharp object you can keep in your pocket. Squeeze the cap when you feel your nerves at the boiling point. A small jolt of pain like that will take your mind off your nerves and refocus your attention on your speech.
3. Master your speech content
By knowing the content of your speech inside and out, so well you could repeat it in your sleep, you will be much better at convincing your audience of what you are trying to say. You have to get to the point of memorization that you don’t have to think about the words anymore; then, you can simply focus on the delivery of the speech. Our minds work this way, where we can focus better on the important things when we have the “muscle memory” aspects down.
Following these three tips to master public speaking is a good way to start becoming a more effective speaker. Remember, practice is the key. Practice in front of the mirror, your friends, and finally, live audiences. Give speeches as often as you can. The only way to overcome a fear of public speaking is to get out there and face it. Soon, you will forget that you were ever afraid of public speaking to begin with.
By Max Grimnar
Ciao,
Maurice