One of the most popular crafts these days is knitting. Within the last decade, a flood of people from all walks of life, both male and female, have taken up knitting. However, when most people first begin learning a new craft, especially one that requires certain hand movements, it can be awkward!
Like any other new skill you’ve learned, public speaking can feel weird and unnatural when you first start out. However, as you learn how to speak in front of others and practice these skills, you will become better at it. Of course, there’s no guarantee that you won’t still be nervous, but being well prepared certainly helps.
Study the tips in the table below. The first section includes things you should do to prepare for your speech. The second part includes what to do as you are giving your speech.
| Preparing for Your Speech | |
|---|---|
Read your speech numerous times out loud. The more often you read it and hear it, the more likely you are to remember it. |
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Memorize as much of your speech as you can. However, you don’t have to say every sentence exactly as you have it written. Instead, strive to present the gist of your ideas. |
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Give your speech in front of a mirror or record a video of yourself giving the speech. Pay attention to your facial expressions, how you stand, and hand gestures. Then try to improve your delivery based on what you learned. |
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Plan to rehearse your speech numerous times before you actually present it to someone. Practice, practice, practice! |
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| Giving Your Speech | |
Look at your audience and make eye contact with some of them, but don’t stare too long at one person. That will make them nervous. |
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Stand up straight and be sure to look up at your audience—except when you glance at your notes or graphics. |
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Use appropriate hand gestures and facial expressions. You don’t want to get too exuberant with this, but your body language should accurately reflect what you’re discussing. |
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Pause after important points or questions that you ask. You’re not expecting your audience to respond, of course, but you do want them to think about what you’re saying. |
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Speak normally, but be sure you are not mumbling or speaking too softly. Also, speak slowly enough that everyone can understand you. |
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Question
What if you can’t remember what to say in the middle of your speech?
