I spend quite a lot of time on the road speaking at different events and meeting with all kinds of business owners. I always enjoy it and over the years I’ve come up with a top tips list for public speaking. Have a read below and see what works for you.
1. Get in Early
Try to get on as early as possible in the agenda. A later slot is tricky as people have sometimes already checked out of the conference!
2. Research
Know your audience and make sure you tailor your message accordingly. Dress appropriately for the presentation. A good rule is thumb is to dress similar to the audience.
3. Start with a Joke
I find this works well to build a rapport and help everyone settle in! Tailor your jokes to your audience and be careful not to offend!
4. Don’t let technology drive the presentation
If it’s not up to scratch don’t use it! Be prepared for it not to work so that you don’t come to rely on it. Always have a plan b – for example have your bullet points on speaking cards as a back up.
5. Don’t bore with PowerPoint
If you decide to use it, use pictures. Make sure you tell stories and share your experiences.
6. Less is more!
Too short is better than too long. Keep it to 20 minutes and make sure you include time for Q&A.
7. Give them a Take Away
Make sure you leave the audience with something to remember and take away from the day. Include the line “if you remember one thing from this speech”.
8. Tell stories
Share stories and experiences so that the audience can learn from you. Make reference to previous speakers. The more genuine you can be the more people will connect with you.
9. Speak Clearly
This should go without saying – speak clearly. Make sure you take your time, slow it down. Make your points clear. Learn how to say less while really getting your message across. Don’t drink alcohol before you speak. It may relax you but your delivery will be better with no alcohol.
10. The Element of Surprise!
Don’t give the audience your presentation in advance.
