Public speaking fear is one of the most commonly reported concerns across all ages. Listed below are some public speaking tips and hints which will help youngsters and adults conquer their anxieties and strengthen their public speaking capabilities.
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Practice Speaking First Related to Something You Know
For starters, presenting casual practice session opportunities referring to something the speakers already know can help quite a lot. In a school, every assignment for public speaking would profit by starting with a day or two when each kid picks a topic on a every day activity and presents it before their peers. It could be a story about a sport they play or an explanation of a daily routine. The familiarity makes the speaking experience exciting and easy.
Thoroughly Know Your Subject Matter
This advice applies both to adults and to kids. Even before you begin writing your speech, take all the time and effort required to understand everything possible regarding the topics of your public speaking activities. The more you learn and know about a topic, the more comfortable you can be when you finally stand in front of others to explain and expand upon the subject.
Keep the Subject and Length Appropriate to the Age Group
Although adults may be required to talk about a range of sub-topics and will sometimes be speaking for many minutes or even hours, public speaking for kids need to be tailor-made for their age and ability. If a broad public speaking topic has to be addressed by students or young people, consider breaking up the speaking assignment into smaller sub-topics so that it is not overwhelming.
Practice like You Play, Rehearse like You Will Speak
It is an old sport adage that an athlete needs to practice the same way that he or she will play. The same thing is true when preparing for a speech or other public speaking activities. Take the time to create an environment similar to that of your presenting venue when you are rehearsing. Try to find a mirror or think about taping yourself so you can see how you present yourself. By far the most important piece of advice is to speak using a relaxed, slow and smooth delivery, even when rehearsing.
Know Your Speaking Space
Nothing minimizes nervousness more quickly than familiarity. This applies not only to your public speaking topic, but also to the place you will present. If at all possible, visit the place where you will be speaking. Check for possible issues and concerns like stairway and tricky microphones. Arrange for adaptations if you are a very tall or very short speaker. Take a look at the technology if a computer or projector is a part of the plan. Figure out where you must stand and what to do while awaiting your turn.
Relax Just Prior to the Speech
Maybe the worst thing you can do immediately before speaking is to keep running your speech over and over in your head or even continuing to rehearse in your room or office. A better approach is to read, watch some television, play a game, or anything that relaxes you. Take a walk, or take a nap. You know yourself best – work off nerves, or take deep breaths to find your center. Walk up to the podium with something fresh and new to share, and you may have the viewers in the palm of your hand.