How to Pull off a Successful Public Speech
A lot of people dread speaking in public. But, just like any other fears, you can overcome this one too. It is common that many people tend to get nervous before and during their public speech or presentation.
It can help if you practice meditation or taking regular breaths whenever you feel nervous. Since it's a natural reaction, you need to take a few deep breaths to help you relax before starting your speech.
Before commencing your speech, make sure you have a focal point in the room that will act as an inspiration and will keep you focused. There are times that when you get distracted midway, you tend to lose your focus. This is where the focal point can help you get back on track.
When giving a public speech, try not to look at the eyes of all the people in the audience; this might put you off your game. Also, plan what you have to say in the speech but never plan it word-for-word. Make it sound natural by making your speech spontaneous, touching only on the points you have listed.
To help break the ice, you can start your speech with a light-hearted joke. This can help ease not only your own tension, but also get your audience to relax. This will also boost your confidence. However, be wary with overdoing it. If you do, you will sound pathetic and instead warrant an awkward moment that is quite hard to get out of.
Last but not the least, when giving public speeches: try to talk a little slower than you normally do. Speaking at a slower pace allows you look very sure and confident of the words that you say, and also you are kind of deliberately taking it slow so as to give yourself time to organize your thoughts. However, be sure not to overdo it as well. By doing so, you risk getting your audience bored with your presentation.
Try to mix it up, change your tone of voice according to the theme of what you are discussing. This will help you have the audience's attention all throughout the presentation.
