I bet you feel tough right about now. It is totally fine, however. Much like in intercultural communication, you can prepare for your public speech through effective practice and rehearsal. Whether you are a novice or a pro in public speaking, having a plan will allow you to practice beforehand and get to the point where you will be able to comfortably speak with your audience. This article contains pointers that you need in undertaking your public speech as well as practice it for maximum effectiveness.
Important Steps To Take When Practicing For A Speech
Defining Your Audience
Effective practice and research starts with understanding who your audience is. Not every speech is for every person. How do audience members define their expectations for the speech? How will your speech fill the gaps and solve the problems that your audience has? With this knowledge, you can guarantee that your material will always be on point and interesting.
Making Your Speech Relevant
Research is critical when making a speech. Having enough research about your topic allows you to expand your speech as well as provide accurate information. A well backed up argument does not only support your points but also elevates your credibility as a speaker. Make sure to research as much as possible so that you can construct a supportive and powerful speech.
Tips for Delivering a Rehearsed Speech
Rehear Physically
The “1:3 Rule” means you should prepare at least three times longer than the actual time it takes to give the speech. You may need to do more if you’re a novice. Make sure you become comfortable with the material to the best of your abilities with each rehearsal session.
Practicing Your Speech
Make audio or video recordings when you are practicing. It will help you note what areas can be improved such as wording, pacing, tone and even your movements. Self criticism will enhance your delivery. It’s essential that your message is delivered as you intend.
Sub Communication
As body language is a critical form of communication (in some studies as high as 93%), be mindful of your movements, face expressions, and eye contact. Use non-verbal communication appropriately, missed words might alter the meaning of your message. You may use exercises known as Happy-Sad to help you control your emotions and moderate your expressions whilst speaking.
Sending Your Message
Consider the perspective of your audience. Ask yourself if your message is easy to understand. Refrain from making your speech too long or dull as it can easily bore your audience. Remember to engage with them through emotions whilst giving a speech.
Visual Aids and Props
If you are using some props or visual aids, rehearse with them like you are in the final presentation. Learn how to merge them into your speech so that they aid understanding and attention.
Important Aspects of Speech Preparation
Emotional Connection with Content
Relate emotionally with your material. This bond will enable you to give the speech in a more believable manner and with better connection to your listeners.
Venue Familiarity
If possible, go and check the venue before the date and test the equipment for your own comfort. Speak your opening speech in the venue so that you feel eased during your address.
Time Slot Awareness
Be mindful of the time for which you will give the speech. Try to level of engagement and interaction depending on the time so that you have sufficient time to deliver the message.
Overcoming Public Speaking Fear
Avoid Word-By-Word Memorization
Remembering every word of your speech disengagement from the audience. Understand the logical flow of your speech instead so that you can communicate with your audience naturally and keeps their attention.
Use Cue Cards for Structure
Your presentation should have intro, body, and conclusion. To ensure the speech is engaging and natural as possible, use cue cards with key phrases that will assist you in steering through them.
Mental Rehearsal for Confidence
Visualization
Find a place to seat yourself comfortably and close your eyes. Picture yourself confidently entering the venue, making your speech, and interacting with the audience. Reducing anxiety for an optimal performance is aided by visualization.
Key Takeaways
- Understanding your audience is crucial, as you have to meet their needs and expectations.
- Memorization is not an option, your emphasis should be on delivering the message, not on stringing together the sentences.
- Rehearse regularly. Verbal, non-verbal and mental rehearsals will aid in perfecting your speech.
- Using visual aids is a practice that should be done with caution. Always have certainly that the props or visuals you intend to use are seamlessly integrated into the speech.
- Always focus on being calm and confident. Exercises such as the Happy-Sad technique can assist in regaining a balanced emotional level to remain focused.
- Implementing these preparation and rehearsal suggestions, you will be able to engage and speak confidently to the audience during the speech.
