6 Tips for Good Public Speaking

Most people don't have trouble getting up and speaking in front of a small group of friends and family, but the thought of having to speak in front of a group of strangers, especially a large group of professionals can often bring about an attack of "stage fright." I used to get nervous from public speaking, but now I enjoy it. As with just about any skill, you really do get better with a bit of time and practice.

Here are a few public speaking tips to make you shine:

1) Pick the right subject.You must choose a topic you are familiar with and which you have strong feelings. It is really disastrous to talk on something which is not your domain and you are very likely to make an ass of yourself if you do that. However, if you tread on known grounds, you will feel comfortable and confident to talk about your subject.

2) Organize your points thoughtfully and logically. Your talk must have a beginning--a brief introduction on what you are going to say; a middle where you elaborate on your topic; and an ending that summarizes on what you have just said.

3) Rehearse your speech in private. After you have planned your presentation, it is time to practise delivering it. Better if you do it alone. Remember, you are not initiating a discussion here. You will have to talk alone and logically present what you would like to say. Hence, you would do well to practise in front of the mirror like a seasoned actor. Be positive and try to "see" and "hear" the positive feedback you are going to get when you have them under your sway.

4) Don't resort to elaborate notes. No pre-written speech can sound spontaneous. You are doomed if you do that. At best, you can make short notes, consisting of only a few words,which will guide you towards your destination.

5) Be friendly with your audience. Don't be formal and stuffy. Begin your talk maintaining a simple conversational style. make use of humor as much as you can, but only at the right places. And please avoid stale and outworn jokes, which will merely increase boredom.

6) Bring your speech to a climactic end. Your ending words must be carefully crafted so that they continue to ring in the ears of your listeners even after you have ended.Urge them, exhort them to a course of action, and leave them wanting more.In other words, end with a bang.