The first thing you have to remember is to be on time! Any speaking engagement requires punctuality. Being present and ready to go at your event will ensure a good first impression from the audience.
1) Greet your audience. It is important that you properly address the audience with your warmest greeting before starting your presentation. Rapport will automatically be more deeply fostered when the speaker welcomes them with a sincere greeting. This will turn-out as a good start for both the speaker and the audience and foster an immediate connection between them.
2) Make a short but meaningful opening remark. This is the very critical part of the speech because this represents the whole presentation in a nutshell. Give a brief background on what the subject is all about so the speaker must be able to project a memorable opening remark.
3) Practice poise and composure. This is a vital requirement among public speakers. When facing an audience, the speaker must exude self-confidence in the most dignified way in the way he talks, uses body language and makes eye contact with the people in front of him. These elements of delivery will go a long way to holding the interest of the crowd during the presentation.
4) Learn to relax and be calm. Often times, public speakers appear nervous in front of the audience through the body language that he or she is displaying. Becoming fidgety, stammering, a cracked voice and other ‘tells’ will connote that you as the speaker are not confident. Believe that you know what you are saying and that you can convince the audience with your presentation.
5) Speak clearly and pronounce the words slowly. By doing this, you will be certain that the audience will be able to understand your presentation and can participate if they want to raise questions if necessary. The medium of expression is very crucial in every speaking engagement. It is important that the speaker be able to present to the audience in an simply understood manner.
6) Remember that with every word that comes out from your mouth, there should be a corresponding body gesture. This will exhibit a union of both thoughts and ideas which are transformed into action. It is also advantageous to use body language in order to highlight or stress an important subject matter in your speech.
7) End you speech with an insightful closing remark. It is important that the speaker be able to summarize his or her presentation by giving a sharp yet intelligent closing remark that will leave the audience with something to ponder over. The audience is wise enough to decide if the speaker was able to convince them or not. Therefore, it is a must for every speaker in their closing remarks share with the audience the very essence of his presentation to make a lasting impression.
