Last week we shared 3 Tips for Public Speaking. Here are additional suggestions to consider the next time you speak in front of others.
Every communicator is unique. Be true to yourself and reflect your personality and gender. Maintain feminine qualities in your voice, mannerisms, illustrations, and content. Rely on your spiritual gifts and personal experience. Improve your communication. Develop yourself as a person and build a storehouse of information. Study great speeches and observe effective speakers. Consider these guidelines as you step up and speak up.
Delivery Techniques
Effective speech delivery involves the whole person and considers the total situation. It communicates ideas without revealing techniques. Verbal and nonverbal communication are utilized, and rapport must be established with the audience. Remember these suggestions when you step up to speak:
- Start with a bang!
- Speak with confidence.
- Develop ideas thoroughly.
- Support points.
- Relate directly to the audience.
- Help listeners make application.
- Respect time frame and context.
- Deliver an effective conclusion.
Body Language
The bulk of a message is conveyed nonverbally. How you say what you say is important and requires practice. The public speaker must use nonverbal language to clarify the message.
Body language includes facial expression, eye contact, posture, gestures, and appearance. Nonverbal communication should animate, relax, and be natural. Speakers can practice in informal conversations. Record presentations for self-evaluation.
This article is adapted from a chapter written by Rhonda Kelley and found in Transformed Lives: Taking Women’s Ministry to the Next Level compiled by Chris Adams.