HOW TO BECOME A DYNAMIC PUBLIC SPEAKER & POWER PRESENTER

HOW TO BECOME

A DYNAMIC PUBLIC SPEAKER

& POWER PRESENTER

Part I: Confidence

Are you paralyzed with anxiety

at the thought of speaking in front of an audience?

You are not alone, public speaking is the #1 psychological fear even more than death.  And yet, it is a valuable leadership skill that can propel you to the top of your industry, company, or community. Whether you are a rising professional, business leader, or politician, the ability to make an effective sales presentation, conduct a board meeting, or deliver an inspiring toast increases your stature and distinguishes you above the crowd.

Confidence is key to maintaining control of your presentation and ultimately your audience.

1. Preparation

Your attention to preparation and readiness prior to your engagement or presentation eliminates mental stress and insures your ability to communicate confidence.

• Research and know the character and culture of your audience.   
• Prepare notes with large print for easy reading.
• Write down key points only.
• Use checklists for necessary supplies, equipment, and setup instead of leaving it up to memory.
• Arrive early enough to setup, familiarize yourself with the venue, and handle unexpected changes.

   2.   Practice

Practice, practice, practice until you develop what professional dancers call "muscle memory."  Rehearse to the point of performing without thinking about what comes next.

• Rehearse your entire presentation start to finish no less than six times including timing.
• Practice in front of family and friends for a live audience.
• Include in your rehearsal strategically placed voice changes and gestures to emphasize key ideas. 

  3.   Become Fearless

Fear dissipates when you talk to yourself instead of listening to yourself.  Controling your thought processes plays an important role in success. 

• Cardio exercise prior to your engagement expends nervous energy.
• Visualize yourself speaking with composure, remembering your material, and handling difficult questions.
• Breathe deeply.
• Ask yourself, "What is the worst that can happen?" and how will you respond?

"Whether your forum is a corporate boardroom or PTA meeting,

your degree of speaking skill will determine to a great extent how

seriously people take your ideas and whether they will follow your lead."

                 Aram Bakshian, Jr.