Practical advice on public speaking


Everyone does public speaking in one way or another, whether a formal presentation to an audience of 500 industry professionals or leading a book club discussion.  If you really care about delivering a message effectively, read on.

Don't get caught up in using the "right" words or phrases in a first draft.  Don't labor over following a preconceived outline of your major points.  Simply sit down and put your pen to paper--write the first thoughts that come to mind.  If you get fixated on the outline or phrasing at the start of drafting you'll never finish. Fine-tuning and revisions can come later, once you are satisfied with the core message. If something is not relevant or does not advance your message, chances are it does not belong in the draft.

After completing the draft I go back to see if the core message comes through clearly and the topics flow logically.  I also read the draft aloud to eliminate words and phrases that are tongue-twisters.

On a practical level, my earlier posts covered the "do's" of giving speeches.  What follows are things you should not do in preparing or delivering public remarks. 

 DO NOT...

 ...begin a presentation with trite phrases such as "It's a pleasure/privilege to be here with you this morning."  Personalize your opening.  Create a visual.  Start with a grabber of a story.

 ...end by expressing your appreciation for their attention.  Instead, reinforce your message.  Deliver a strong concluding line.  Don't let your voice tail off.

 ...read your presentation or your slides. Do not lose eye contact with the audience. If you use slides, limit their number and  keep them simple with little on each slide.  Use large print to make them readable by those near the back row.  If anyone wants copies of the slides the organization sponsoring your presentation should distribute them.

 ...talk down to or over the heads of the audience. 

...try to impress everyone with technical jargon and acronyms. If they are not commonly understood the audience will not fully appreciate what you are trying to convey.  

 ...talk for more than 20 minutes.

 ...forget, less is more.  Limit the material so your main points receive the most attention.

 ...lose your composure if something unexpected happens during your presentation.  Let those in charge of the program handle the situation while you pause and wait.  If it is an emergency, stay calm and use common sense. 

 Please forward this blog to family, friends and colleagues with your suggestion they become subscribers (free).  Thank you.  Mark Riedy    mriedy@sandiego.edu 

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