Public Speaking Tip: Create a Positive Image

A good speaker is characterized by:

• Integrity (which includes a believable, professional appearance)

• Knowledge of his or her subject matter and ability to answer questions

• Self-confidence

• Skill

Tips for Self-Confidence

Speakers can increase their self-confidence by using five physically oriented tips:

1. Maintain good posture.

Don't lean all over the lectern, a habit that makes a speaker look lazy or uninterested. Touching or resting against the lectern briefly is satisfactory, but long-term support is not. Bad posture shows a lack of respect for the audience.

2. Remain steady.

Don't distract the audience by constant pacing; fidgeting with change, pens, coast buttons or glasses; or rocking. Keep the audience's attention on the message.

3. Use direct eye contact.

Look at individuals for two to three seconds, and then shift to someone else. Finding a friendly, supportive face in the audience can make a speaker feel more comfortable and confident.

4. Use natural gestures.

Talk with your hand to enhance ideas. Speakers who are stiff or grip the lectern rigidly look scared. At the same time, avoid pointing at the audience, standing with hands on hips or crossed arms, or keeping your hands in your pockets. "Home-based," neutral positions include hands at sides, hands resting on lectern temporarily, parade rest, or one arm up and one down.

5. Speak well.

Speak with energy and earnestness through controlling the volume , speed, tone or pitch of your voice. Use variety in voice and facial expression. Find times during your speech to smile and look pleasant.

Three Amens

Added to these five tips are three "amens."

1. Stay in control - no matter what. Don't panic, even if your projector breaks, you drop your notes, or you draw a blank.

2. Don't apologize to your audience for any flaw you perceive in yourself. Start out confidently, and the talk with flow more easily.

3. Don't be afraid of nervous tension; when you're "psyched up" you do a better job. Control and channel the tension with expansive gestures, a nice smile, and a loud voice that makes you sound dynamic. You can also silently repeat your own personal message (for example, I'm glad I'm here"; "I'm glad you're here"; "I'm interested in you"; "I know that I know").