Useful Tips

Pick a topic you are interested in. Know more about it than you include in your speech. 

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Use humor, personal stories and conversational language – that way you won’t easily forget what to say.

Rehearse out loud with all equipment you plan on using. Revise as necessary. Work to control filler words; Practice, pause and breathe. Practice with a timer and allow time for the unexpected.

Greet some of the audience members as they arrive. It’s easier to speak to a group of friends than to strangers.

Arrive early, walk around the speaking area and practice using the microphone and any visual aids.

Begin by addressing the audience. It buys you time and calms your nerves.

Pause, smile and count to three before saying anything. ("One one-thousand, two one-thousand, three one-thousand. Pause. Begin.) 

Transform nervous energy into enthusiasm.

Imagine yourself speaking, your voice loud, clear and confident. Visualize the audience clapping – it will boost your confidence.

 Audiences want you to be interesting, stimulating, informative and entertaining. They’re rooting for you.

For any nervousness or problem – the audience probably never noticed it.

Focus your attention away from your own anxieties and concentrate on your message and your audience.

Mainly, your speech should represent you — as an authority and as a person. Experience builds confidence, which is the key to effective speaking. 

A Toastmasters club can provide the experience you need in a safe and friendly environment.