Public Speaking 101

Harmin Patel, Secretary

Public Speaking is a skill which can foster greater professional and personal growth in individuals. However, knowing all the tips and tricks that can help you become a better public speaker can be hard. By following these techniques, you can not only deliver a better speech, but also be able to connect with others in a positive way.

Public Speaking Tips:

1. Practice and Prepare - Being nervous before a presentation or speech is normal. The best way to combat the anxiety that encompasses a presentation is to make sure that you are well-prepared. Making sure you understand your material well can help to calm nerves. Make sure to go over your presentation multiple times in front of a mirror, recording yourself, or in front of a small group. As you become familiar with your speech, you will be able to deliver it more clearly and confidently.

2. Know your audience - Understanding the members of your audience can change your speech greatly. For instance, if it is an academic research-based community that you are presenting to, you would try to have a more serious tone, especially if it is a delicate topic. However, if you are presenting at a pep rally, you would have more of an energetic tone as you would want everyone to get excited for an event. 

3. Use voice and hands effectively - Having a good delivery of your presentation is just as important as the content within the presentation. Using your voice and hands with purpose keeps your audience engaged. Try using various volumes and tone inflections with your voice that is purposeful to what you are talking about at the moment. Use hand gestures to highlight important points rather than just having continuous motion which may not necessarily be adding to your presentation.

4. Showcase your personality - In presentations, showcase your true self and the genuine person that you are. People in the audience would be able to connect and build rapport with you more easily. Bring an energy to your presentation that is unforgettable. This will not only leave a lasting impression on the audience, but also make the presentation unforgettable for you.

5. Breathing - Make sure to breathe to calm yourself before and during your speech. Deep breathing can help to calm your mind and settle any nerves. You can practice inhaling through your nose, holding the air for a few moments, and then exhaling through your mouth. You will be able to feel more in control and ready to give a great presentation!

6. Positivity - Understand that everybody makes mistakes and nobody is perfect. Always have a great attitude and learn from things that go wrong. Attack each practice with positivity and you will be able to keep improving and become a public speaker who is able to connect with others in unimaginable ways.

Overall, becoming a great public speaker takes time and practice. Using these techniques and having a great attitude can help you get closer to expressing your voice confidently and communicating effectively with others.

​- Harmin Patel, Secretary