Public speaking is an Art

People who speak effectively are likely to become leaders. Very often the time that is devoted to public speaking pays off well. It is the wisest investment of time and money. Studies reveal that public speaking contributes to about 80 percent of your success in life.

             Anyone can improve his speaking skill. All you have to do is to learn. The two steps in making any speech                  " preparation and delivery" both are equally important. 

              As a speaker you must consider the following four points.

1. Pick up the right subject to know what you are talking about and to believe in what you are trying to speak.

2. You must know how to begin and end your speech. A speech falls naturally into three parts- the approach, the main facts and the conclusion. Remember to organise your points logically. You may type your notes on small cards.

3. Rehearse in private your speech. You need to practice your speech before delivering it.

4. Public speaking is always a matter of communication. A flat voice is most often found in memorised speeches or by just plain reading. Your voice should rise and fall. A little eagerness, zeal and joy in your voice can bring about happiness to others. It can be effective as a tonic that gives energy.

   Don't be in a great hurry to start. Settle yourself before you begin. Show interest. Your first few seconds are more important than your next few minutes. Say sometimes in the first minute of your talk that will immediately attract the attention of your audience. Another thing is important. Think clearly, speak plainly and mean it. Be enthusiastic about what you are saying. Success in public speaking is 50 percent showmanship and 50 percent message. Your personality - charm, energy cleverness, etc. contributes  to the success of your speech.

           Be sure to look at the audience and keep up eye contact. Seek out friendly faces and pay no attention to any that are not. Get eye contact, even persons sitting close to you on the dais.

     "Well begun is half done", the well known proverb id aptly applicable to public speaking. Begin with a smile. A short light-hearted story of some happening or about some person often makes an effective beginning. The tongue should be perfectly relaxed.

           Breathing deeply will give you one third more energy. Humour is very important or absolutely necessary in the beginning of your speech. This will help you and audience relax.

      Right posture can give you the confidence and support. Try to keep your both arms bent at the elbows which will be a ready posture for any gesture.

      Stop for a short time to catch your breath at appropriate moment. Give the listeners time to breathe. This will be very useful to draw the attention of your audience.

      Keep your speech simple. Stay strictly within your time limit.

      Do not cram into your speech as many points as possible. Spoken language is totally different from the written language. Be sure that you stop speaking before the audience stops listening. Always leave the audience wanting more.

       The old saying "practice makes perfect" applies in public speaking too. Speaking engagements can increase your prestige in society. Public speaking is an art that can be learnt and developed. Once you master this art, any public speaking can be a pleasure.