Give the Perfect SpeechUsing 8 Easy Steps

Great speakers are made, not born. It takes time to develop speaking skills. The fear of public speaking is shared by people of any ages, gender, race, religion, or ethnicity. Speaking front of a big crowd of people is intimidating, regardless if its high school students or business executives. People should not let their fear of public speaking stop them! Here are 8 steps that should be taken in order to give a great speech!

1. The first step is analyzing the audience! The speaker should consider who they will be talking too. Not ever group has the same demographics. IT is up to the speaker to cater to the needs, desires, and interests of his or her audience. Audience analyzing is a key factor in giving an effective speech. Consider the age, race, sex, and gender of the audience members. Before giving the speech, and choosing the topic, ask people with similar characteristics what is important to them. It is also good to ask them what they find informative and entertaining. A 50 year old black woman isn't going to be compelled by the same thing as a 16 year old white boy.

2. Crafting an interesting topic is the second step. Topics vary depending on the presentation. Sometimes the speaker doesn't have the option of choosing the topic. In this situation, craft the topic to fit the interests of the audience. If the speaker has the option of picking their own topic, they should take full advantage of it! Presenting on a self-chosen topic is so much easier. The presenter should pick a topic they find interesting. They should then create a solid thesis state based upon the topic. The thesis statement will be the foundation of the speech.

3. Nobody likes to listen to someone who doesn't know what they are talking about! Do thorough research! Use books, magazines, surveys, and the creditable internet sources. Use factual information. Avoid polarizing opinions and illogical fallacies. Never assume anything about the knowledge of the audience. Consider the potential questions audience members will ask during a presentation.

4. The fourth step in giving the perfect speech is creating an outline. Use the thesis statement and the research to craft the outline. Avoid writing out a speech word for word. This is boring and ineffective!

5. Practicing is another important step in the speech process. The presenter should always practice their speech in front of a small audience before giving the actual speech.

6. After practicing the speech, analyze strengths and weaknesses. Common weaknesses include vocal fillers, poor body language, and lack of eye contact.

7. Making a visual aid is another important step. It isn't necessary, but it doesn't hurt either. A visual aid can help the audience grasp the topic better.

8. Dressing the part is the final step in giving a great speech. Substance is important, but so is appearance. The speaker should look like they know what they are talking about! This doesn't exactly mean they have to wear formal attire to every presentation. It simply means choose clothes that fit well with the audience, topic, and overall environment.

Hopefully these steps are useful. Giving a great speech takes preparation! It isn't impossible! It just takes time and hard work!