Characteristics of An Effective Public Speaker

This is my next assignment's topic "Characteristics of An Effective Public Speaker". Although it seems quite easy but actually its not.

I have search for the answers on the Internet and this is what I get:

1. ** Never memorize your speech **

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to try memorizing your speach. Why do people do this? Because it's a way to make sure they don't stumble during the speech. In other words, it's to alleviate their fear of getting lost, stumbling, or getting overly nervous.

However, memorizing can in fact, make matters worse! First, you could sound like a machine or robot. And that can bore people or make them wonder if you even know your stuff. Second, it can create problems is someone interrupts you or your lose your train of thought. And third, it can make you even more nervous because you may constantly worry if you'll stay on script.

So the best thing you can do is not memorize every single word. Just let your actual words flow naturally. Your audience will like that much more!

2. ** Be prepared **

Preparation in public speaking is an absolute must, even for those who regularly give speeches. Every audience is different because people are never exactly the same. So the dynamics of your audience will vary each and every time you give your speech.

By preparation, I mean making sure you've got your materials--notecards, handouts, projector, etc ready to go. And if you're bringing handouts, make sure you have enough copies--always have extras just in case! Also, make sure you test out the projector if you'll need one.

3. ** Be confident **

When you give a speech, you are the one the audience is focused on. So you need to show confidence in what you have to say. If you don't sound confident, then I won't believe you and/or I'll get bored.

This means using a powerful voice that shows confidence, knowledge, and command of the material! And make sure your voice is loud enough for people in the back and on the sides to hear you. Yet, you don't want to blast too loudly that the people up front will go deaf.

Sometimes, you may have a microphone and speakers to help amplify (increase) your voice. But other times, you may not. If not, then make sure you don't speak too loudly that you'll loose your voice or hurt your vocal cords.

4. ** Organization **

A good speech is like a great essay or book. It has an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. And all this is centered on a specific goal to accomplish. In other words, there's a main point your speech is making.

Your intro should tell audience members who you are, what you'll be speaking about in general, and what they'll learn or walk out with in the end. Your body should provide all the details and information necessary to accomplish your speech's goal. And your conclusion should provide some follow-up, summarize key points made during your speech, and possibly allow for some audience questions (Q&A).

If anyone of you are going to encounter a public speaking situation, these pointers can help you.