Public Speaking

What is a Speech?
Speech is the expression of or the ability to express thoughts and feelings by articulate sounds. It
can be verbal or nonverbal communication that is delivered for a given purpose. Speech can be used
to convey ideas, opinions, and emotions, and it is an important aspect of many professions in terms
of promoting proper communication between individuals. Some examples of speech include formal
addresses or discourses delivered to an audience, a person’s style of speaking, and a sequence of
lines written for one character in a play

Overcoming Fear of Public Speaking

Public speaking is a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. Whether you’re a student
giving a presentation, a professional at a conference, or an entrepreneur pitching an idea, with the
right preparation and guidance, you can become a confident and compelling public speaker.

1. Prepare
The first step in any public speaking engagement is to prepare. Take time to research your topic and
practice your presentation. Not just practice your words, but also your delivery. Will you move or
stand at a podium? Will you make a joke or ask an introspective question? Knowing exactly what
you’re going to say to begin and finish your speech will help keep you organized and confident.

It’s also important to practice your presentation in front of someone. This will help you get used to
speaking in front of people and build your confidence.

2. Practice
To capture and maintain the audience’s attention, it’s important to engage them. Humor is a great
way to help people remember things, but it can make or break a public speaking engagement. Make
sure to practice and ask for feedback from your friends and family.

3. Get Used to Making Eye Contact

One of the most important aspects of public speaking is confidence. Even if you’re nervous or unsure
of yourself, it’s important to project an air of confidence. As intimidating as it can be, eye contact
conveys confidence and that you care enough about your audience to engage them directly.

4. Use Visual Aids

Visual aids can be a great way to engage the audience and make your presentation more
memorable. If possible, use slides, videos, or other visuals to illustrate your points. This will help
keep the audience’s attention and make your message more memorable.

5. Know Your Audience

Before you give a presentation, it’s important to know your audience. Research the group and
understand their interests and needs. This will help you tailor your presentation to their particular
needs and make it more engaging.
6. Use Clear Notes
Although it’s important to be prepared, it’s also good to be flexible. Having a few notes can help you
stay on track and make sure you don’t forget any key points. However, it’s essential to keep your
notes concise and not rely too heavily on them.

7. Don’t Rush
When giving a presentation, it’s important to take your time. Don’t rush through your presentation
in order to fit everything in. This will only make you more nervous and will make it harder for the
audience to understand your message.

8. Be Positive
Your attitude can make a big difference in your performance. Make sure to stay positive and focus
on the positives of your presentation. This will help you stay confident and will make the audience
more receptive to your message. Practicing power poses in preparation for your presentation can
help you master any nervousness, too.

9. Relax
Public speaking can be nerve-wracking, so it’s important to relax before you begin. Take a few deep
breaths, practice positive self-talk, and focus on the audience. This will help you stay calm and
composed during your presentation.

Language of Public Speaking

Clear language is powerful language. Clarity is the first concern of a public speaker when it comes to
choosing how to phrase the ideas of his or her speech. If you are not clear, specific, precise, detailed,
and sensory with your language, you won’t have to worry about being emotional or persuasive,
because you won’t be understood. There are many aspects of clarity in language, listed below.

1. Achieving Clarity
Achieving clarity in public speaking involves using simple language, providing concrete examples,
maintaining an organized structure, repeating key points for emphasis, incorporating visual aids,
avoiding ambiguity, and clearly stating the purpose of your speech. These strategies help ensure that
your message is easily understood and effectively communicated to your audience.

2. Effectiveness
Effectiveness in public speaking involves clear communication, audience engagement, logical
organization, relevance, confidence, adaptability, and creating a memorable impact with the
message.

3. Jargon
Jargon used in your profession or hobby should only be used with audiences who share your
profession or hobby. Not only will the audience members who don’t share your profession or hobby
miss your meaning, but they will feel that you are not making an honest effort to communicate or
are setting yourself above them in intelligence or rank.
4. Slang
The whole point of slang is for a subculture or group to have its own code, almost like secret words.
Once slang is understood by the larger culture, it is no longer slang and may be classified as
“informal” or “colloquial” language. “Bling” was slang; now it’s in the dictionary.

5. Complicated Vocabulary
Using complex words in public speaking might make you sound smart, but it can confuse people. It's
often better to keep things simple and use words that everyone can easily understand to ensure
your message is clear to a wider audience.

6. Credibility
Credibility in public speaking refers to the audience's perception of the speaker as knowledgeable,
trustworthy, and reliable. Building credibility involves demonstrating expertise on the topic, being
honest and transparent, and connecting with the audience. A credible speaker is more likely to be
listened to and trusted by their audience.

7. Rhetorical Techniques
Rhetorical techniques are tools used in speaking or writing to make communication more effective.
They include asking impactful questions, using catchy sounds (like repeated initial sounds), repeating
words or ideas for emphasis, and making comparisons with metaphors or similes. These techniques
help speakers and writers engage, persuade, and leave a lasting impression on their audience.

Drafting a Public Speech

Drafting a public speech involves several key stages, each contributing to a well-crafted and effective
presentation:

1. Reading and Research:

 Begin by thoroughly reading and researching your topic. Gather information from reliable
sources to build a strong foundation for your speech.
 Take notes on key points, interesting facts, and supporting details that will strengthen your
message.

2. Writing:
 Start drafting your speech, keeping in mind the overall structure: introduction, body, and
conclusion.
 Clearly outline your main points and supporting details, ensuring a logical flow of ideas.
 Craft a compelling introduction to grab the audience's attention and a strong conclusion that
leaves a lasting impression.

3. Fact Check:
 Verify the accuracy of the information you've included. Ensure that your facts are up-to-date
and supported by reputable sources.
 Fact-checking is crucial for building credibility and maintaining the trust of your audience.
4. Rewriting:
 Review and revise your speech for clarity, coherence, and impact. Ensure that each section
flows smoothly into the next.
 Look for opportunities to enhance language, add rhetorical devices, and strengthen your
argument or message.

5. Delivery:
 Practice delivering your speech to refine your timing, tone, and body language.
 Pay attention to your pace, emphasizing key points and allowing for pauses when necessary.
 Practice in front of a mirror or record yourself to identify areas for improvement.

Remember that effective communication involves more than just words; it also includes non-verbal
cues, such as gestures, eye contact, and vocal tone. Tailor your delivery to engage your specific
audience and make adjustments based on feedback from practice sessions.

3 P’s of Public Speaking

The 3 P's of public speaking—Preparation, Practice, and Performance—are key principles for
delivering effective and confident presentations:

1) Preparation:
 Thoroughly research your topic and organize your content.
 Understand your audience to tailor your message appropriately.
 Create a clear and structured outline for your speech.
 Anticipate potential questions or challenges.

2) Practice:
 Rehearse your speech multiple times to become familiar with the content.
 Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or present to a friend for constructive feedback.
 Focus on your delivery, including tone, pace, and body language.
 Work on maintaining eye contact and engaging the audience.

3) Performance:
 During the actual presentation, remain calm and focused.
 Use effective body language to convey confidence and engagement.
 Speak clearly and vary your tone to keep the audience's attention.
 Be prepared to adapt to unexpected situations or questions.

By adhering to the 3 P's, you can enhance your public speaking skills and deliver a more compelling
and successful presentation.

Rhetoric Skills
Rhetoric skills are like having a toolbox for talking in a way that grabs attention and convinces
people. It's about using different techniques, such as telling stories or repeating important points, to
make your words more powerful. Imagine it as understanding how to connect with others by
adjusting how you talk, considering what they might feel or care about.
Art of Informative and Persuasive Speaking
Think of informative speaking as being a good explainer. It's about making complicated things simple
and clear for everyone. When you have this skill, you can share information in a way that people can
easily understand, ensuring they grasp the main ideas without getting confused.

Now, persuasive speaking is like being a great persuader. It's not just about giving out facts; it's
about using stories or emotions to make people believe or do something. It's about being really good
at talking to make a point stick in people's minds. It involves combining facts with a convincing
approach, making your audience see things from your perspective.

Types of Public Speaking

1) Physical Public Speaking:
Involves delivering presentations in person, typically in settings like auditoriums or conference
rooms. This form of public speaking allows for direct interaction with a live audience, fostering
immediate engagement and feedback.

2) Online Public Speaking

Comprises speeches presented virtually through webinars, online conferences, or digital platforms.
Online public speaking demands effective use of technology and visual aids, with audience
interaction facilitated through digital means.

3) Political Public Speaking

Encompasses speeches by politicians aimed at communicating policies, ideas, and persuading voters.
This type often involves addressing large crowds, managing diverse opinions, and utilizing persuasive
techniques.

4) Organizational Public Speaking

Occurs within a business or organizational context, addressing employees, stakeholders, or clients.
The focus is on conveying information, promoting organizational goals, and maintaining a
professional tone.

5) Educational Public Speaking

Involves speeches delivered in educational settings, such as classrooms or academic conferences.
The emphasis is on sharing knowledge, engaging learners, and facilitating learning outcomes.

6) Motivational Public Speaking

Aims to inspire and energize the audience to achieve personal or professional growth. This type
relies on emotional appeal, storytelling, and providing actionable advice or encouragement.

7) TED Talks
Consists of short, powerful presentations on various topics delivered at TED conferences. TED Talks
emphasize concise, compelling storytelling and the sharing of innovative ideas.

8) Public Speaking in Media

Encompasses speeches delivered through various media channels, including television, radio, or
podcasts. Public speaking in media requires adapting to specific formats, considering the broader
audience, and often involves interviews or panel discussions.