How To Be A Great Public Speaker - TIPS

Summary

This video discusses overcoming the fear of public speaking, which affects up to 40% of people. The speaker introduces the 'Eight P Principle' for becoming a confident speaker: defining your Purpose, thorough Preparation, using Powerpoint effectively, showcasing Passion, engaging with your Public, delivering with Power, continuous Practice, and performing like an actor. Key advice includes starting with a bang, using powerful language, engaging body language, and connecting with the audience. The emphasis is on delivering a powerful, passionate performance, supported by preparation and practice, to inspire and captivate listeners.

Takeaways

• 🎤 Public speaking is a major fear for around 40% of people, so just getting on stage is an accomplishment.
• 🎯 Define your purpose: Know why you’re delivering the speech and what you want to achieve.
• 📝 Prepare thoroughly: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning, body, and end, and consider starting with a strong opening to grab attention.
• 💥 Make a memorable start and end: Begin with a ‘bang’ using quotes, jokes, or bold statements, and end by linking back to your start for a complete and impactful finish.
• 📊 Use PowerPoint wisely: If you choose to use slides, ensure they support your message with visuals rather than bullet points.
• 🔥 Bring passion to your topic: Excitement and energy in your presentation will engage your audience and make your content more compelling.
• 👥 Connect with your audience: Treat your speech as a conversation. Use eye contact and interactions to build a connection.
• 💪 Project power: Practice using powerful words, vocal variety, and body language to reinforce your message and command the stage.
• 🔄 Practice consistently: Rehearse in front of friends, a mirror, or even record yourself to refine your delivery.
• 🎭 Perform with authenticity: Embrace the role of a presenter, and approach each speech as a performance that showcases your genuine self.

Q & A

What is the biggest fear for up to 40% of people according to the speaker?

Public speaking is the biggest fear for up to 40% of people.

What is the first 'P' in the speaker's eight P principle for becoming a confident speaker?

The first 'P' is 'Purpose'. The speaker emphasizes the importance of defining why you are giving the speech, your goal, vision, and motivation.

How should one begin a presentation, according to the speaker?

The speaker recommends starting with a 'big bang', such as a joke, quote, statement, or a historic fact, to grab the audience's attention right away.

Why is preparation important, and how does the speaker suggest structuring a presentation?

Preparation is key to delivering an effective presentation. The speaker suggests structuring the presentation with a clear beginning, body, and end, ensuring that the beginning grabs attention and the end concludes with a powerful climax.

What is the role of PowerPoint in a presentation, according to the speaker?

PowerPoint should be used only to support and reinforce the message. It should not be used to explain content with bullet points; instead, it should inspire and engage the audience with visuals.

How does passion influence the effectiveness of a presentation?

Passion is critical. If the speaker is not passionate about the topic, it will be hard to inspire the audience. Passion energizes the speaker and helps to engage the audience.

What is the importance of connecting with the audience?

The audience is essential to public speaking, and the speaker should engage with them through eye contact, interaction, and involvement. Public speaking is described as a 'dance' between the speaker and the audience.

What three components should a speaker focus on to project power during a presentation?

To project power, the speaker should focus on using powerful words, controlling their voice (tone, articulation, speed, and volume), and using effective body language.

What are the recommended ways to practice before a presentation?

The speaker recommends practicing in front of a mirror, friends, colleagues, or even teddy bears. Recording oneself and reviewing the performance or working with a coach are also effective ways to improve.

What does the speaker mean by 'performing' as an actor during a presentation?

The speaker suggests that presenting is like acting on stage, where you need to perform authentically and energetically, even if it's in front of a small audience, to deliver a memorable and impactful presentation.