You can’t make a decent talk unless you have something worthwhile to talk about. The most important component of preparing is conceptualising and framing what you want to say.
1. Be conscious of how you communicate nonverbally.
Use CONFIDENCE-inspiring body language! Maintain a decent posture. Smile and appear unconcerned. It will help you appear and feel more self-assured. Instead of reading from your notes the entire time, make eye contact with your audience. Distracting behaviours such as chewing gum or fidgeting should be avoided. Keep an eye out for nervous behaviours like rocking or tapping. Make sure you’re dressed adequately for your job.
2. Take a break throughout your presentation to ponder!
When under duress, people tend to speak more fast. Make an effort to slow down and include pauses in your speech. Slowing down your speech will also help you avoid unnecessary fillers like “ummm” and “ahhhh.”
3. Pay attention to the volume of your voice.
Consider projecting your voice to the front of the room so that everyone can hear what you’re saying.
4. Make an effort to communicate clearly
Communicate clearly so that your audience can comprehend you.
5. Stay away from the ‘lecture’.
You’ll be able to hold your audience’s attention better if you include more than a speech in your presentation. Use pictures, ask questions, and engage in activities.
6. Make questions.
Keeping your audience interested can be as simple as asking them questions like “have any of you had this issue?”
7. Use verbal cues to guide your actions.
To get your audience’s attention, use introduction statements like “This portion is extremely crucial.”
8. Take a look at the people in the room.
If looking folks in the eyes makes you uncomfortable, look at their shoulders or foreheads instead.
