how to make a speech more engaging

10 Tips for Improving Your Public Speaking Skills

Few are immune to the fear of public speaking. Marjorie North offers 10 tips for speakers to calm the nerves and deliverable memorable orations.

Marjorie North

Snakes? Fine. Flying? No problem. Public speaking? Yikes! Just thinking about public speaking — routinely described as one of the greatest (and most common) fears — can make your palms sweat. But there are many ways to tackle this anxiety and learn to deliver a memorable speech.

In part one of this series,  Mastering the Basics of Communication , I shared strategies to improve how you communicate. In part two, How to Communicate More Effectively in the Workplace , I examined how to apply these techniques as you interact with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. For the third and final part of this series, I’m providing you with public speaking tips that will help reduce your anxiety, dispel myths, and improve your performance.

Here Are My 10 Tips for Public Speaking:

1. nervousness is normal. practice and prepare.

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice — a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

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2. Know Your Audience. Your Speech Is About Them, Not You.

Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the message is intended for. Learn as much about your listeners as you can. This will help you determine your choice of words, level of information, organization pattern, and motivational statement.

3. Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to Attain Your Purpose.

Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds.

4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It.

Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible. Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you lose the attention of or confuse even the most devoted listeners.

5. Let Your Personality Come Through.

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person.

6. Use Humor, Tell Stories, and Use Effective Language.

Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will certainly grab your audience’s attention. Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A story can provide that.

7. Don’t Read Unless You Have to. Work from an Outline.

Reading from a script or slide fractures the interpersonal connection. By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep the focus on yourself and your message. A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep you on task.

8. Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous Gestures.

Nonverbal communication carries most of the message. Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without distraction.

9. Grab Attention at the Beginning, and Close with a Dynamic End.

Do you enjoy hearing a speech start with “Today I’m going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t. Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote, or concise quotation. Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong statement that your audience is sure to remember.

10. Use Audiovisual Aids Wisely.

Too many can break the direct connection to the audience, so use them sparingly. They should enhance or clarify your content, or capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech. You may not be able to shake your nerves entirely, but you can learn to minimize them.

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About the Author

North is a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, and runs a private practice specializing in public speaking, and executive communication skills. Previously, she was the clinical director in the department of speech and language pathology and audiology at Northeastern University.

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How to write a speech that your audience remembers

Whether in a work meeting or at an investor panel, you might give a speech at some point. And no matter how excited you are about the opportunity, the experience can be nerve-wracking . 

But feeling butterflies doesn’t mean you can’t give a great speech. With the proper preparation and a clear outline, apprehensive public speakers and natural wordsmiths alike can write and present a compelling message. Here’s how to write a good speech you’ll be proud to deliver.

What is good speech writing?

Good speech writing is the art of crafting words and ideas into a compelling, coherent, and memorable message that resonates with the audience. Here are some key elements of great speech writing:

• It begins with clearly understanding the speech's purpose and the audience it seeks to engage. 
• A well-written speech clearly conveys its central message, ensuring that the audience understands and retains the key points. 
• It is structured thoughtfully, with a captivating opening, a well-organized body, and a conclusion that reinforces the main message. 
• Good speech writing embraces the power of engaging content, weaving in stories, examples, and relatable anecdotes to connect with the audience on both intellectual and emotional levels. 

Ultimately, it is the combination of these elements, along with the authenticity and delivery of the speaker , that transforms words on a page into a powerful and impactful spoken narrative.

What makes a good speech?

A great speech includes several key qualities, but three fundamental elements make a speech truly effective:

Clarity and purpose

Remembering the audience, cohesive structure.

While other important factors make a speech a home run, these three elements are essential for writing an effective speech.

The main elements of a good speech

The main elements of a speech typically include:

• Introduction: The introduction sets the stage for your speech and grabs the audience's attention. It should include a hook or attention-grabbing opening, introduce the topic, and provide an overview of what will be covered.
• Opening/captivating statement: This is a strong statement that immediately engages the audience and creates curiosity about the speech topics.
• Thesis statement/central idea: The thesis statement or central idea is a concise statement that summarizes the main point or argument of your speech. It serves as a roadmap for the audience to understand what your speech is about.
• Body: The body of the speech is where you elaborate on your main points or arguments. Each point is typically supported by evidence, examples, statistics, or anecdotes. The body should be organized logically and coherently, with smooth transitions between the main points.
• Supporting evidence: This includes facts, data, research findings, expert opinions, or personal stories that support and strengthen your main points. Well-chosen and credible evidence enhances the persuasive power of your speech.
• Transitions: Transitions are phrases or statements that connect different parts of your speech, guiding the audience from one idea to the next. Effective transitions signal the shifts in topics or ideas and help maintain a smooth flow throughout the speech.
• Counterarguments and rebuttals (if applicable): If your speech involves addressing opposing viewpoints or counterarguments, you should acknowledge and address them. Presenting counterarguments makes your speech more persuasive and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Conclusion: The conclusion is the final part of your speech and should bring your message to a satisfying close. Summarize your main points, restate your thesis statement, and leave the audience with a memorable closing thought or call to action.
• Closing statement: This is the final statement that leaves a lasting impression and reinforces the main message of your speech. It can be a call to action, a thought-provoking question, a powerful quote, or a memorable anecdote.
• Delivery and presentation: How you deliver your speech is also an essential element to consider. Pay attention to your tone, body language, eye contact , voice modulation, and timing. Practice and rehearse your speech, and try using the 7-38-55 rule to ensure confident and effective delivery.

While the order and emphasis of these elements may vary depending on the type of speech and audience, these elements provide a framework for organizing and delivering a successful speech.

How to structure a good speech

You know what message you want to transmit, who you’re delivering it to, and even how you want to say it. But you need to know how to start, develop, and close a speech before writing it. 

Think of a speech like an essay. It should have an introduction, conclusion, and body sections in between. This places ideas in a logical order that the audience can better understand and follow them. Learning how to make a speech with an outline gives your storytelling the scaffolding it needs to get its point across.

Here’s a general speech structure to guide your writing process:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

How to write a compelling speech opener

Some research shows that engaged audiences pay attention for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Other estimates are even lower, citing that people stop listening intently in fewer than 10 minutes . If you make a good first impression at the beginning of your speech, you have a better chance of interesting your audience through the middle when attention spans fade. 

Implementing the INTRO model can help grab and keep your audience’s attention as soon as you start speaking. This acronym stands for interest, need, timing, roadmap, and objectives, and it represents the key points you should hit in an opening. 

Here’s what to include for each of these points: 

• Interest : Introduce yourself or your topic concisely and speak with confidence . Write a compelling opening statement using relevant data or an anecdote that the audience can relate to.
• Needs : The audience is listening to you because they have something to learn. If you’re pitching a new app idea to a panel of investors, those potential partners want to discover more about your product and what they can earn from it. Read the room and gently remind them of the purpose of your speech. 
• Timing : When appropriate, let your audience know how long you’ll speak. This lets listeners set expectations and keep tabs on their own attention span. If a weary audience member knows you’ll talk for 40 minutes, they can better manage their energy as that time goes on. 
• Routemap : Give a brief overview of the three main points you’ll cover in your speech. If an audience member’s attention starts to drop off and they miss a few sentences, they can more easily get their bearings if they know the general outline of the presentation.
• Objectives : Tell the audience what you hope to achieve, encouraging them to listen to the end for the payout. 

Writing the middle of a speech

The body of your speech is the most information-dense section. Facts, visual aids, PowerPoints — all this information meets an audience with a waning attention span. Sticking to the speech structure gives your message focus and keeps you from going off track, making everything you say as useful as possible.

Limit the middle of your speech to three points, and support them with no more than three explanations. Following this model organizes your thoughts and prevents you from offering more information than the audience can retain. 

Using this section of the speech to make your presentation interactive can add interest and engage your audience. Try including a video or demonstration to break the monotony. A quick poll or survey also keeps the audience on their toes. 

Wrapping the speech up

To you, restating your points at the end can feel repetitive and dull. You’ve practiced countless times and heard it all before. But repetition aids memory and learning , helping your audience retain what you’ve told them. Use your speech’s conclusion to summarize the main points with a few short sentences.

Try to end on a memorable note, like posing a motivational quote or a thoughtful question the audience can contemplate once they leave. In proposal or pitch-style speeches, consider landing on a call to action (CTA) that invites your audience to take the next step.

How to write a good speech

If public speaking gives you the jitters, you’re not alone. Roughly 80% of the population feels nervous before giving a speech, and another 10% percent experiences intense anxiety and sometimes even panic. 

The fear of failure can cause procrastination and can cause you to put off your speechwriting process until the last minute. Finding the right words takes time and preparation, and if you’re already feeling nervous, starting from a blank page might seem even harder.

But putting in the effort despite your stress is worth it. Presenting a speech you worked hard on fosters authenticity and connects you to the subject matter, which can help your audience understand your points better. Human connection is all about honesty and vulnerability, and if you want to connect to the people you’re speaking to, they should see that in you.

1. Identify your objectives and target audience

Before diving into the writing process, find healthy coping strategies to help you stop worrying . Then you can define your speech’s purpose, think about your target audience, and start identifying your objectives. Here are some questions to ask yourself and ground your thinking : 

• What purpose do I want my speech to achieve? 
• What would it mean to me if I achieved the speech’s purpose?
• What audience am I writing for? 
• What do I know about my audience? 
• What values do I want to transmit? 
• If the audience remembers one take-home message, what should it be? 
• What do I want my audience to feel, think, or do after I finish speaking? 
• What parts of my message could be confusing and require further explanation?

2. Know your audience

Understanding your audience is crucial for tailoring your speech effectively. Consider the demographics of your audience, their interests, and their expectations. For instance, if you're addressing a group of healthcare professionals, you'll want to use medical terminology and data that resonate with them. Conversely, if your audience is a group of young students, you'd adjust your content to be more relatable to their experiences and interests. 

3. Choose a clear message

Your message should be the central idea that you want your audience to take away from your speech. Let's say you're giving a speech on climate change. Your clear message might be something like, "Individual actions can make a significant impact on mitigating climate change." Throughout your speech, all your points and examples should support this central message, reinforcing it for your audience.

4. Structure your speech

Organizing your speech properly keeps your audience engaged and helps them follow your ideas. The introduction should grab your audience's attention and introduce the topic. For example, if you're discussing space exploration, you could start with a fascinating fact about a recent space mission. In the body, you'd present your main points logically, such as the history of space exploration, its scientific significance, and future prospects. Finally, in the conclusion, you'd summarize your key points and reiterate the importance of space exploration in advancing human knowledge.

5. Use engaging content for clarity

Engaging content includes stories, anecdotes, statistics, and examples that illustrate your main points. For instance, if you're giving a speech about the importance of reading, you might share a personal story about how a particular book changed your perspective. You could also include statistics on the benefits of reading, such as improved cognitive abilities and empathy.

6. Maintain clarity and simplicity

It's essential to communicate your ideas clearly. Avoid using overly technical jargon or complex language that might confuse your audience. For example, if you're discussing a medical breakthrough with a non-medical audience, explain complex terms in simple, understandable language.

7. Practice and rehearse

Practice is key to delivering a great speech. Rehearse multiple times to refine your delivery, timing, and tone. Consider using a mirror or recording yourself to observe your body language and gestures. For instance, if you're giving a motivational speech, practice your gestures and expressions to convey enthusiasm and confidence.

8. Consider nonverbal communication

Your body language, tone of voice, and gestures should align with your message . If you're delivering a speech on leadership, maintain strong eye contact to convey authority and connection with your audience. A steady pace and varied tone can also enhance your speech's impact.

9. Engage your audience

Engaging your audience keeps them interested and attentive. Encourage interaction by asking thought-provoking questions or sharing relatable anecdotes. If you're giving a speech on teamwork, ask the audience to recall a time when teamwork led to a successful outcome, fostering engagement and connection.

10. Prepare for Q&A

Anticipate potential questions or objections your audience might have and prepare concise, well-informed responses. If you're delivering a speech on a controversial topic, such as healthcare reform, be ready to address common concerns, like the impact on healthcare costs or access to services, during the Q&A session.

By following these steps and incorporating examples that align with your specific speech topic and purpose, you can craft and deliver a compelling and impactful speech that resonates with your audience.

Tools for writing a great speech

There are several helpful tools available for speechwriting, both technological and communication-related. Here are a few examples:

• Word processing software: Tools like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or other word processors provide a user-friendly environment for writing and editing speeches. They offer features like spell-checking, grammar correction, formatting options, and easy revision tracking.
• Presentation software: Software such as Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides is useful when creating visual aids to accompany your speech. These tools allow you to create engaging slideshows with text, images, charts, and videos to enhance your presentation.
• Speechwriting Templates: Online platforms or software offer pre-designed templates specifically for speechwriting. These templates provide guidance on structuring your speech and may include prompts for different sections like introductions, main points, and conclusions.
• Rhetorical devices and figures of speech: Rhetorical tools such as metaphors, similes, alliteration, and parallelism can add impact and persuasion to your speech. Resources like books, websites, or academic papers detailing various rhetorical devices can help you incorporate them effectively.
• Speechwriting apps: Mobile apps designed specifically for speechwriting can be helpful in organizing your thoughts, creating outlines, and composing a speech. These apps often provide features like voice recording, note-taking, and virtual prompts to keep you on track.
• Grammar and style checkers: Online tools or plugins like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor help improve the clarity and readability of your speech by checking for grammar, spelling, and style errors. They provide suggestions for sentence structure, word choice, and overall tone.
• Thesaurus and dictionary: Online or offline resources such as thesauruses and dictionaries help expand your vocabulary and find alternative words or phrases to express your ideas more effectively. They can also clarify meanings or provide context for unfamiliar terms.
• Online speechwriting communities: Joining online forums or communities focused on speechwriting can be beneficial for getting feedback, sharing ideas, and learning from experienced speechwriters. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and improve your public speaking skills through collaboration.

Remember, while these tools can assist in the speechwriting process, it's essential to use them thoughtfully and adapt them to your specific needs and style. The most important aspect of speechwriting remains the creativity, authenticity, and connection with your audience that you bring to your speech.

5 tips for writing a speech

Behind every great speech is an excellent idea and a speaker who refined it. But a successful speech is about more than the initial words on the page, and there are a few more things you can do to help it land.

Here are five more tips for writing and practicing your speech:

1. Structure first, write second

If you start the writing process before organizing your thoughts, you may have to re-order, cut, and scrap the sentences you worked hard on. Save yourself some time by using a speech structure, like the one above, to order your talking points first. This can also help you identify unclear points or moments that disrupt your flow.

2. Do your homework

Data strengthens your argument with a scientific edge. Research your topic with an eye for attention-grabbing statistics, or look for findings you can use to support each point. If you’re pitching a product or service, pull information from company metrics that demonstrate past or potential successes. 

Audience members will likely have questions, so learn all talking points inside and out. If you tell investors that your product will provide 12% returns, for example, come prepared with projections that support that statement.

3. Sound like yourself

Memorable speakers have distinct voices. Think of Martin Luther King Jr’s urgent, inspiring timbre or Oprah’s empathetic, personal tone . Establish your voice — one that aligns with your personality and values — and stick with it. If you’re a motivational speaker, keep your tone upbeat to inspire your audience . If you’re the CEO of a startup, try sounding assured but approachable. 

4. Practice

As you practice a speech, you become more confident , gain a better handle on the material, and learn the outline so well that unexpected questions are less likely to trip you up. Practice in front of a colleague or friend for honest feedback about what you could change, and speak in front of the mirror to tweak your nonverbal communication and body language .

5. Remember to breathe

When you’re stressed, you breathe more rapidly . It can be challenging to talk normally when you can’t regulate your breath. Before your presentation, try some mindful breathing exercises so that when the day comes, you already have strategies that will calm you down and remain present . This can also help you control your voice and avoid speaking too quickly.

How to ghostwrite a great speech for someone else

Ghostwriting a speech requires a unique set of skills, as you're essentially writing a piece that will be delivered by someone else. Here are some tips on how to effectively ghostwrite a speech:

• Understand the speaker's voice and style : Begin by thoroughly understanding the speaker's personality, speaking style, and preferences. This includes their tone, humor, and any personal anecdotes they may want to include.
• Interview the speaker : Have a detailed conversation with the speaker to gather information about their speech's purpose, target audience, key messages, and any specific points they want to emphasize. Ask for personal stories or examples they may want to include.
• Research thoroughly : Research the topic to ensure you have a strong foundation of knowledge. This helps you craft a well-informed and credible speech.
• Create an outline : Develop a clear outline that includes the introduction, main points, supporting evidence, and a conclusion. Share this outline with the speaker for their input and approval.
• Write in the speaker's voice : While crafting the speech, maintain the speaker's voice and style. Use language and phrasing that feel natural to them. If they have a particular way of expressing ideas, incorporate that into the speech.
• Craft a captivating opening : Begin the speech with a compelling opening that grabs the audience's attention. This could be a relevant quote, an interesting fact, a personal anecdote, or a thought-provoking question.
• Organize content logically : Ensure the speech flows logically, with each point building on the previous one. Use transitions to guide the audience from one idea to the next smoothly.
• Incorporate engaging stories and examples : Include anecdotes, stories, and real-life examples that illustrate key points and make the speech relatable and memorable.
• Edit and revise : Edit the speech carefully for clarity, grammar, and coherence. Ensure the speech is the right length and aligns with the speaker's time constraints.
• Seek feedback : Share drafts of the speech with the speaker for their feedback and revisions. They may have specific changes or additions they'd like to make.
• Practice delivery : If possible, work with the speaker on their delivery. Practice the speech together, allowing the speaker to become familiar with the content and your writing style.
• Maintain confidentiality : As a ghostwriter, it's essential to respect the confidentiality and anonymity of the work. Do not disclose that you wrote the speech unless you have the speaker's permission to do so.
• Be flexible : Be open to making changes and revisions as per the speaker's preferences. Your goal is to make them look good and effectively convey their message.
• Meet deadlines : Stick to agreed-upon deadlines for drafts and revisions. Punctuality and reliability are essential in ghostwriting.
• Provide support : Support the speaker during their preparation and rehearsal process. This can include helping with cue cards, speech notes, or any other materials they need.

Remember that successful ghostwriting is about capturing the essence of the speaker while delivering a well-structured and engaging speech. Collaboration, communication, and adaptability are key to achieving this.

Give your best speech yet

Learn how to make a speech that’ll hold an audience’s attention by structuring your thoughts and practicing frequently. Put the effort into writing and preparing your content, and aim to improve your breathing, eye contact , and body language as you practice. The more you work on your speech, the more confident you’ll become.

The energy you invest in writing an effective speech will help your audience remember and connect to every concept. Remember: some life-changing philosophies have come from good speeches, so give your words a chance to resonate with others. You might even change their thinking.

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Elizabeth Perry, ACC

Elizabeth Perry is a Coach Community Manager at BetterUp. She uses strategic engagement strategies to cultivate a learning community across a global network of Coaches through in-person and virtual experiences, technology-enabled platforms, and strategic coaching industry partnerships. With over 3 years of coaching experience and a certification in transformative leadership and life coaching from Sofia University, Elizabeth leverages transpersonal psychology expertise to help coaches and clients gain awareness of their behavioral and thought patterns, discover their purpose and passions, and elevate their potential. She is a lifelong student of psychology, personal growth, and human potential as well as an ICF-certified ACC transpersonal life and leadership Coach.

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Public Speaking: Tips to Captivate and Engage Audiences

Effective tips straight from Jimmy Pomerance that will enhanced not only your professional career, but also your personal life as well…

In the realm of public speaking, the ability to captivate and engage an audience is paramount. Whether you’re addressing a small group or a large conference, the principles of effective public speaking remain the same. Here are key strategies to help you become a more compelling speaker.

Understand Your Audience

To effectively engage your audience, it’s crucial to understand their background, interests, and expectations. Tailoring your speech to resonate with them creates a connection and makes your message more relevant. Research your audience, consider their level of knowledge about the topic, and what they hope to gain from your presentation.

Open With Impact

The beginning of your speech sets the stage. Start with a strong, attention-grabbing opening like a surprising statistic, a thought-provoking question, or a compelling story. This hooks your audience’s interest right from the start and sets the tone for your presentation.

Master the Art of Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool in public speaking. It helps in making complex topics more relatable and memorable. Incorporate stories that illustrate your main points, share personal experiences, or use metaphors and analogies to make your content more engaging.

Focus On Body Language

Your body language communicates as much as your words. Use gestures to emphasize points, move around the stage to engage with different parts of the audience, and maintain good posture to project confidence. Remember, eye contact is key to connecting with your audience.

Vary Your Voice

Your voice can maintain or lose the audience’s attention. Vary your pitch, pace, and volume to emphasize key points and keep the audience engaged. Avoid monotonous tones, and practice modulating your voice to make your presentation more dynamic.

Use Visual Aids Wisely

Visual aids, like slides and videos, should support and enhance your message, not distract from it. Keep them simple, relevant, and visually appealing. Ensure that they are easily visible to the entire audience and use them sparingly to maintain focus on your speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Familiarity with your material boosts confidence and smoothens your delivery. Rehearse your speech multiple times, ideally in front of a mirror or a test audience, to refine your content and delivery. This also helps you manage your timing and get comfortable with your material.

Engage with the Audience

Interaction keeps the audience engaged. Ask rhetorical questions, encourage audience participation, or include a Q&A session. Reading and responding to the audience’s non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, can also help in keeping them engaged.

Handle Nerves

Nervousness is common in public speaking. Techniques such as deep breathing, positive visualization, and focusing on the message rather than on yourself can help manage anxiety. Remember, practice and experience are key to overcoming public speaking nerves.

Close with Purpose

End your speech with a strong conclusion. Summarize key points, provide a call to action, or leave your audience with a thought-provoking message. A memorable closing reinforces your message and leaves a lasting impression on your audience.

The art of effective communication is fundamental in building and maintaining client relationships. It requires not just skill, but also empathy, understanding, and commitment. Let Impact Speakers show you the nuances of this art. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to teaching you how to effectively put these tools to work, enhancing your communication skills in both personal and professional settings. Let us guide you through mastering these skills, ensuring that your interactions with clients are not just successful, but also meaningful and enduring.

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How to Write a Speech to Engage your Audience

February 19, 2021 - Dom Barnard

In order to write a speech, you need to think about your audience, the required length, and the purpose or topic. This is true whether you are writing a wedding speech, conference presentation, investor pitch, or any other type of speech.

Being a great speech writer can help you get a promotion, motivate people, sell a business idea, persuade others and much more – it’s an essential skill in the modern world. In this article, we cover key tips for writing a speech.

Initial planning – Why? Who? What?

You should invest time strategically considering the speech. This will help you decide on the key message and content about your topic. Here are some points to consider.

• What do I want to achieve?
• When I achieve this, what will that do for me?
• Why am I speaking?
• What is the purpose of this speech?
• Who are the audience and who do they represent?
• Who do I represent?
• What do I know about them? (culture, language, level of expertise)
• How much influence do they have?
• What is the main message and key points?
• What specific action is implied?
• What level of information should I include?
• What is important to them?

Popular speech structure

You need to catch the audience attention early, very early (see section below). Deliver a memorable beginning, a clear middle and structured ending.

Popular speech structure:

• Explanation 1
• Explanation 2
• Explanation 3

Secondary Point (Optional: supports main)

Tertiary Point (Optional: supports secondary and main)

Attention span of your audience

Research shows that attention span is greatest at the beginning of a speech, reduces considerably during the middle of your speech and picks up again towards the end when your audience know you about to finish.

Don’t try to put too many ideas into your speech. Research shows that people remember very little from speeches, so just give them one or two ideas to hang onto.

These two articles explain audience attention span in more detail, and how to write a speech to extend it:

• How many minutes is the audience’s attention span?
• What to do when you’re losing your audience

Speech introduction

Make sure your opening few seconds are memorable as this is when your audience will make up their minds about you. Use a bold sentence to grab their attention, works best with numbers reinforcing your point.

An example sentence might be – “After this speech, I’m confident 50% of you will go out and buy a VR headset.” Follow these tips on how to write a speech intro:

Remember the INTRO model

This is more focused on presentations but sections can be applied broadly to other general speeches.

1. Interest

You: Introduce yourself confidently and clearly Audience: Why should I listen to you?

You: Remind the audience the reasons for this speech Audience: What’s in it for me?

You: State length of speech at beginning, “Over the next 15 minutes” Audience: How long until I can get a coffee?

4. Routemap

You: State the main points, “Today I’m going to cover 4 main points” Audience: Which sections of the speech are important to me?

5. Objectives

You: Clearly state the objective, “By the end of this speech, I would like to…” Audience: So that’s what you want from me today…

Example: Great speech opening

This speech opening is by Jamie Oliver, giving a TED talk on teaching every child about food.

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead through the food that they eat. My name’s Jamie Oliver. I’m 34 years old. I’m from Essex in England and for the last seven years I’ve worked fairly tirelessly to save lives in my own way. I’m not a doctor; I’m a chef, I don’t have expensive equipment or medicine. I use information, education. I profoundly believe that the power of food has a primal place in our homes that binds us to the best bits of life. We have an awful, awful reality right now. America, you’re at the top of your game. This is one of the most unhealthy countries in the world.

How not to open your speech

Avoid the following opening comments:

• “ Apologies, I’m a little nervous about speaking ” – no need to make the audience aware of this, it will make them focus on how nervous you are instead of what you are saying
• “ I’ve got the graveyard shift ” – you are telling people not to expect much
• “ I’m what stands between you and lunch ” – even if people weren’t thinking it, after this comment, all they are thinking of is when will you finish so they can eat
• “ We are running late, so I’ll do my best to explain… ” – instead of this, state how long your speech will take so that people know when they will be leaving

Middle of the speech

The body of your speech is where the majority of the information is. The audience has been introduced to the subject and reasons for the speech. Now you need to present your arguments and examples, data, illustrations backing up your key message.

How to write a speech body can be difficult, the best way to build this section is to write down three points you are trying to convey in your speech, your main, secondary and tertiary points. Then write down three descriptions clarifying each of these points. The descriptions should be simple, memorable and meaningful.

The middle of your speech is where the audience start losing attention. Keep this in mind and ensure your message is clear. Use images, jokes and rhetoric questions to keep the audience engaged.

Don’t overwhelm your audience with many points. It is much more valuable to make a small number of points well, than to have too many points which aren’t made satisfactorily.

Obama and his speeches

Obama’s speeches are well prepared with a focus on powerful words “A change is brought about because ordinary people do extraordinary things“. His speeches use simple language and quotes from famous speeches his listeners can relate to.

For additional trademark Obama techniques, check out  How Barack Obama prepares his speeches.

How to end a speech

Similar to the opening, your closing statements should be impactful, re-stating the key message of your speech. We advise learning your ending few lines word for word. The ending is an opportunity to:

• Leave the audience with a lasting impression of your speech
• Summarise the main points
• Provide further ideas and discussion points for the audience to take away with them
• Thank the audience for taking the time to listen

Methods to end your speech

Quotation Close  – use a famous quote to get the audience’s attention and create a link to your speech.

Bookend Close  – refer back to an opening statement and repeat it or add a few extra words to elaborate on it.

Open Question  – ask the audience a provocative question or a call to action to perform some task on the back of your speech.

For additional tips on how to write a speech, in particular how to close your speech, read:

• 5 great ways to end a speech
• 10 ways to end your speech with a bang
• Presentations: language expert – signposting

Ideas for ending a speech

• Key message
• Refer to opening impact statement
• Objectives met
• Call to action
• End on an Up

Step-by-step process for writing a speech

Here’s how to write your speech from concept to completion.

• Outline your speech’s structure. What are the main ideas for each section?
• Write out the main ideas in your outline. Don’t worry about making it perfect – just write as much of it down as you can
• Edit and polish what you’ve written until you have a good first draft of your speech
• Now you need to practice and  memorize your speech . The more you practice, the more you’ll figure out which sections need changing. You’ll also get an idea of length and if you need to extend / shorten it.
• Update your speech, practice some more, and revise your speech until it has a great flow and you feel comfortable with it.

Classic speech transcripts

One of the best ways for learning how to write a speech is reading other well written ones. Here are a list of famous speeches to read and learn from:

• Bill Gates TED Talk Transcript from 2015: Warns of Pandemics, Epidemics
• Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg Commencement Speech at Harvard 2014
• Ronald Reagan Memorial Day Speech Transcript 1984
• I Have Been to the Mountaintop Speech Transcript – Martin Luther King Jr.

• Delivery Techniques →

How to Connect With The Audience for Public Speaking Success

Introduction

Do you often feel unconnected and distant from your audience while delivering a speech? Research has consistently shown that establishing an authentic connection with the audience is essential for effective public speaking.

This blog post will provide ten proven techniques to create rapport and engage listeners, turning what could be a daunting task into an enjoyable experience. Let’s catapult your speaking skills to new heights!

Key Takeaways

• Establishing a genuine connection with the audience is crucial for effective public speaking, as it engages listeners and builds rapport .
• Techniques such as responding to the audience, making eye contact, using appropriate humor, and sharing personal experiences help to create this connection.
• Relating to the audience’s knowledge and interests, moving closer physically, and maintaining enthusiasm and a positive attitude also contribute to connecting with the audience.
• Connecting with the audience through these techniques enhances understanding, keeps listeners engaged, and makes presentations more impactful.

Why Connecting with the Audience is Important in Public Speaking

Establishing a connection with your listeners  is paramount in public speaking. This vital aspect not only engages the audience actively but also aids in building rapport that stirs interest and attention to your presentation.

Remember, speeches aren’t monologues; they are interactive dialogues that compel information transfer from the speaker to an attentive listener.

Acknowledging your audience’s presence is a must-do for every successful presenter. It creates identification, which happens when common ground between you – as the speaker – and your listeners is found.

It’s all about tailoring your speech to suit their interests, attitudes, beliefs and level of understanding—this is where effective audience analysis comes into play.

Moreover, nonverbal communication can’t be overlooked during verbal outreach – a simple smile can boost connection considerably! With this positive action alone, you subtly communicate warmth while ensuring everyone present feels recognized.

Always bear in mind that wordless signals often carry more weight than spoken words for achieving genuine involvement across board from everyone present.

In essence: Connecting with the audience provides them with necessary information simplifying complex themes into digestible bits — thus making it easier for them to understand what you’re communicating through transitions cues without veering off course or getting lost within any particular topic area discussed throughout presentations made on various subjects or domains.

Techniques to Engage and Connect with the Audience

Engage and connect with the audience by responding to their questions and comments, making eye contact, smiling and showing enthusiasm, using appropriate humor, sharing personal experiences, relating to their knowledge and interests, moving closer to them physically, giving compliments that highlight their strengths, and telling engaging stories that captivate their attention.

Responding to the audience

Engaging the listeners through active responses is a potent tool for building rapport in public speaking. This technique involves recognizing audience reactions and adjusting your delivery accordingly, ensuring that your speech resonates with them.

It entails acknowledging comments, answering questions promptly, or even altering the pace of your presentation based on visual cues from the audience.

This flexible approach portrays you as an attentive speaker who values their input and time. Notably, it breathes life into your speech by transforming it from a one-sided lecture to a dynamic conversation that fosters engagement and connection.

Coupled with relatability and enthusiasm, responding effectively can evoke emotions within your listeners; this taps into the power of empathy which is crucial for creating vivid imagery in public speaking.

Through timely response to feedback during speeches, speakers can adapt on-the-fly – shaping their narratives according to audience interest while enriching the overall experience.

Making eye contact

As a public speaker, mastering the art of eye contact can revolutionize your connection with the audience. It’s more than just a quick glance; it’s a powerful means of nonverbal communication, displaying sincerity and inviting trust.

Engaging the audience directly with your gaze establishes credibility and enhances likability, effectively building rapport. Skillfully utilized, eye contact communicates an emotional expression that words simply cannot match.

As you find yourself on stage or behind the podium, be sure to lock eyes with various individuals before starting your presentation as this simple gesture goes far in connecting listeners to your message.

Don’t underestimate this technique in virtual presentations either – even through screens, strong eye contact conveys confidence and maintains engagement. Indeed, improving this skill is within reach; practice makes perfect!

Smiling and showing enthusiasm

Smiling and showing enthusiasm are powerful techniques to engage and connect with your audience during public speaking. It may seem simple, but the impact of a genuine smile cannot be underestimated.

When you smile, it not only signals friendliness and approachability, but it also conveys that you are happy to be there, which instantly creates a positive atmosphere. Furthermore, showing enthusiasm through your facial expressions demonstrates your passion for the topic at hand, capturing the attention and interest of your listeners.

Research has shown that smiling can have a significant influence on how an audience perceives you as a speaker. People naturally gravitate towards those who seem genuinely interested in them or what they have to say.

By smiling and showing enthusiasm throughout your presentation, you establish rapport with your audience right from the start. They will feel acknowledged and valued, making them more likely to listen attentively to what you have to say.

Additionally, when combined with engaging vocal delivery techniques such as varying tone and using appropriate pauses for emphasis, smiling helps create a confident presence on stage. Your body language should reflect this confidence as well – stand upright with shoulders back and head held high.

This projects assurance while communicating nonverbally that you believe in yourself and what you’re saying.

Remember: Smiling is contagious! When you express joy through smiles during your speech, it encourages others in the room to reciprocate those positive emotions. This sets the stage for an interactive experience where everyone feels included.

In conclusion

Using humor appropriately

In the world of public speaking, humor can be a powerful tool for engaging and connecting with your audience. When used appropriately, it has the ability to break down barriers, cultivate a relaxed atmosphere, and create a sense of camaraderie between you and those listening.

Incorporating wit and laughter into your presentation can not only entertain your audience but also make them more receptive to your message. By sharing humorous anecdotes or injecting light-hearted jokes , you can captivate their attention while adding an enjoyable element to your speech.

However, it’s important to strike the right balance and ensure that your humor aligns with the expectations of your specific audience. Offensive or irrelevant jokes should be avoided at all costs as they can quickly undermine credibility and alienate listeners.

Sharing personal experiences

Connecting with the audience through sharing personal experiences is a powerful technique that can captivate and engage them during a public speaking presentation. By opening up and discussing your own life stories, struggles, or triumphs, you create an emotional bond with the audience.

This authenticity not only builds credibility but also establishes a sense of relatability between you as the speaker and the listeners. When you share personal anecdotes, it helps to tailor the speech to their interests and experiences, making it more relevant and engaging for them.

Research shows that storytelling is an effective tool for connecting on an emotional level with an audience. By describing vivid scenes or characters from your own life’s journey, you can transport them into your world, evoking empathy and understanding.

Moreover, anecdotes about personal experiences generate powerful connections because they tap into shared human experiences and emotions.

In addition to fostering a deeper connection with the audience, sharing personal experiences allows you to showcase vulnerability and honesty. This transparency signals authenticity and makes listeners feel like they’re having a genuine conversation rather than just being lectured at.

It creates an atmosphere of trust where they are more likely to be receptive to your message.

To truly connect with your audience through sharing personal experiences:

1. Select stories that align with the topic of your speech .

2. Use descriptive language that paints a clear picture in their minds.

3. Focus on moments of vulnerability or transformation.

4. Be mindful of striking a balance between expressing emotions without becoming overly sentimental.

5. Tie each story back to the main message or lesson you want to convey.

Relating to the audience’s knowledge and interests

Understanding and relating to the audience’s knowledge and interests is a key technique for public speakers to engage and connect with their listeners. By tailoring your speech or presentation to align with what the audience already knows or cares about, you can grab their attention from the start.

Conducting thorough audience analysis allows you to gather insights into their backgrounds, experiences, and preferences so that you can create meaningful content that resonates with them. When you speak on topics that are relevant to their lives or industries, it shows that you understand their needs and challenges.

This builds trust and encourages active participation, making your message more impactful overall. Effective public speaking involves building bridges of shared understanding between yourself and the audience through relatable content tailored specifically for them.

Moving closer to the audience

Moving closer to the audience is a powerful technique for engaging and connecting with them during public speaking. By physically positioning yourself nearer to your listeners, you create a sense of intimacy and inclusion that helps establish rapport.

It shows that you value their presence and want to connect on a personal level. This proximity allows you to make eye contact more easily and enables non-verbal communication cues, such as facial expressions and gestures, to be conveyed more effectively.

Additionally, being closer can help you better gauge the audience’s reactions and adjust your delivery accordingly. So next time you’re speaking in front of an audience, consider moving closer to them – it’s a simple yet impactful way to enhance connection with your listeners.

Giving compliments

Complimenting your audience is a powerful technique to connect with them during public speaking. When you acknowledge their strengths and praise their understanding, you establish rapport and create a positive atmosphere in the room.

As Mark Twain once said, “I can live two months on one compliment.” By engaging with your audience in this way, you not only captivate their attention but also make them feel valued and appreciated.

Giving compliments shows that you are genuinely interested in connecting with them, which encourages active participation and enhances the overall experience for both you as the speaker and your audience.

Telling engaging stories

Engaging stories have the power to captivate an audience like nothing else. When you share personal anecdotes or compelling narratives, you create a connection that goes beyond the words spoken.

Stories allow your listeners to relate and identify with your experiences, making them more invested in what you have to say. By using relatable content and building emotional resonance, you can draw your audience into your world and make them feel like they’re a part of it too.

Don’t be afraid to use interactive storytelling techniques or incorporate immersive presentations that transport your listeners into the heart of the story. Remember, engaging stories create lasting connections and transform your presentation from mere information-sharing into a memorable experience for all.

The Power of Authenticity in Connecting with the Audience

Authenticity holds immense power when it comes to connecting with an audience in public speaking. Genuine speakers who are sincere, transparent, and show vulnerability create a strong bond with their listeners.

By sharing personal experiences and emotions, they evoke empathy and emotional resonance from the audience.

When speakers are authentic, they invite respect from the audience without expecting it. They communicate with generosity and purpose, allowing their true selves to shine through. This authenticity creates a connection that goes beyond just delivering a speech – it engages the audience on a deeper level.

To become an authentic speaker, one must tap into the impulses of openness, connection, passion, and listening to the audience. It takes courage to share authenticity with others but doing so allows for genuine connections to form.

By emphasizing common values, goals, and experiences shared with the audience, speakers can establish identification which enhances engagement.

In public speaking today where virtual presentations have become more prevalent than ever before due to remote work setups or events being moved online – authentic connections can still be fostered even when not physically present by projecting sincerity through body language visible on screen or reaching out directly during networking breaks as part of virtual meetings.

Overall, embracing authenticity is key for anyone seeking to connect deeply with their audience in public speaking engagements. Through genuine communication rooted in trustworthiness and empathy – together with techniques such as engaging storytelling while making eye contact or using humor appropriately – speakers can establish strong connections that leave lasting impressions on their listeners.

The Role of Body Language in Connecting with the Audience

Body language plays a crucial role in connecting with an audience during public speaking. It is the way our body communicates without spoken words, consisting of facial expressions, gestures, and posture .

When a speaker demonstrates good body language, it instantly builds a connection with the audience and enhances trust and credibility. Positive body language captivates the listeners, making them more engaged and receptive to the message being delivered.

By effectively using facial expressions, gestures, and movements, speakers can emphasize and clarify their words while reinforcing sincerity and enthusiasm. Nonverbal cues have a significant impact on how the audience perceives the speech’s effectiveness and how connected they feel to the speaker.

Therefore, mastering effective body language techniques is essential for public speaking success.

Tips for Effective Rehearsal to Enhance Audience Connection

To truly connect with your audience during a public speaking engagement, effective rehearsal is key. Practicing your speech beforehand allows you to fine-tune your delivery and enhance the connection you establish with the listeners.

One essential tip for successful rehearsal is watching for feedback and adapting accordingly. Pay attention to how your audience reacts during practice runs, and make adjustments to ensure that your message resonates with them.

Another valuable technique is practicing in front of a mirror. This allows you to observe your body language and facial expressions, ensuring they align with the emotions you want to convey.

Additionally, recording yourself while delivering the speech can provide invaluable insights into areas where improvement is needed.

Simulating real speaking situations by rehearsing in front of a small audience, even if it’s just one person, can also be beneficial. This helps recreate some of the pressure and dynamics of an actual presentation, giving you an opportunity to adjust as necessary based on their reactions.

Remembering to practice within time limits is crucial too. Rehearsing allows you to refine and streamline your speech so that it fits comfortably within the allotted time frame.

By following these tips for effective rehearsal, public speakers can enhance their connection with audiences and deliver impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression.

Overcoming Nervousness and Building Confidence to Connect with the Audience

Nervousness is a common experience when it comes to public speaking. However, overcoming this fear and building confidence is crucial for effectively connecting with your audience. One key tip is to focus on the fact that people mainly pay attention to the content of your speech rather than how you deliver it.

This means that even if you feel nervous, chances are the audience won’t notice as long as you provide them with valuable information.

Another important technique is to establish better credibility by being yourself and letting your personality shine through in your communication. Authenticity creates an emotional connection with the audience, making them more receptive to what you have to say.

Additionally, sharing personal stories , experiences, and insights can further strengthen this connection.

Confidence can also be enhanced through confident body language such as maintaining eye contact, using gestures, and moving around the stage. These nonverbal cues convey authority and assurance in your message.

Remember that practice makes perfect – rehearse your presentation beforehand so you feel comfortable and prepared.

Lastly, learning about public speaking facts and trying different tips can help manage anxiety while delivering a speech. Over time, as you gain more experience in front of audiences, you will find it easier to overcome nervousness and build confidence in connecting with your listeners.

The Importance of Active Listening for Connecting with the Audience

Active listening is a crucial skill for public speakers to establish a genuine connection with their audience. By actively engaging with what the audience is saying, you not only show that you value their input but also increase comprehension and create an interactive environment.

Research indicates that we remember only about 25-50 percent of what we hear, emphasizing the importance of active listening in ensuring effective communication.

Incorporating active listening techniques can greatly enhance your ability to connect with the audience. This involves using both verbal and non-verbal cues to demonstrate your attention and support for the speaker.

Techniques such as maintaining eye contact, nodding in agreement or understanding, and providing affirmations through appropriate body language all contribute to fostering a stronger connection.

Additionally, by practicing planned redundancy – repeating key information in different ways – you make it easier for the audience to grasp and retain important points.

Developing active listening skills goes beyond just hearing; it requires deeper attention and empathy. It enables you to understand the audience’s needs, concerns, and interests better, allowing you to tailor your message accordingly.

Establishing this connection through active listening creates an atmosphere of mutual understanding between speaker and listener, leading to more meaningful interactions during presentations.

Overall, incorporating active listening into public speaking not only helps strengthen relationships but also improves overall engagement from the audience. By dedicating yourself to truly hearing what others have to say in personal as well as professional settings ensures successful communication while enhancing productivity levels significantly.

Connecting with the Audience in Virtual Presentations

Connecting with your audience is just as important in virtual presentations as it is in face-to-face settings. Despite the physical distance, there are several ways to create a strong connection with your virtual audience.

Firstly, maintain direct eye contact by looking directly at the camera when speaking. This helps create a sense of engagement and connection with your viewers. Secondly, minimize distractions during your presentation by avoiding unnecessary movements or looking down at notes frequently.

Staying focused and attentive will demonstrate your dedication to connecting with the audience.

Another effective way to connect with a virtual audience is through interactive elements. Encourage participants to ask questions or provide feedback throughout the presentation, fostering a sense of involvement and collaboration.

Additionally, incorporating storytelling techniques can help captivate your audience’s attention and make the information more relatable and memorable.

Remember that virtual presentations require minimal resources compared to in-person events; therefore, focus on leveraging technology effectively rather than relying solely on elaborate setups.

Finally, finding common ground between yourself and the audience will help establish identification and engagement from start to finish.

By implementing these strategies, you’ll be able to forge meaningful connections even in an online setting and deliver impactful presentations that resonate with your virtual audience.

In conclusion, connecting with the audience is a crucial element of successful public speaking. By utilizing techniques such as responding to the audience, making eye contact, and sharing personal experiences, speakers can engage listeners and build rapport.

The power of authenticity, effective body language, active listening skills, and overcoming nervousness also play essential roles in establishing a connection with the audience. Whether presenting in person or virtually, prioritizing audience connection will leave a lasting impact on participants and ensure an impactful presentation that resonates long after it ends.

1. How do I connect with my audience during a public speaking engagement?

Connecting with your audience during a public speaking engagement can be achieved by maintaining eye contact, using relatable stories and examples, engaging in interactive discussions or activities, and showing genuine enthusiasm and passion for your topic.

2. What are some tips for overcoming nervousness when speaking in front of an audience?

To overcome nerves when speaking in front of an audience, try deep breathing exercises before your presentation, visualize yourself delivering a successful speech, practice extensively beforehand to build confidence, focus on the message you want to convey rather than worrying about how you appear, and remember that mistakes happen and are often overlooked by the audience.

3. How can I make my presentation more engaging for the audience?

To make your presentation more engaging for the audience, consider incorporating multimedia elements such as visuals or videos to support your points, encourage participation through questions or interactive activities, use storytelling techniques to captivate their attention and emotions, vary your tone of voice and pace to keep them interested, and tailor the content to meet their needs or interests.

4. Is it important to adapt my communication style based on the audience’s demographics?

Yes, adapting your communication style based on the audience’s demographics is crucial in order to effectively connect with them. Consider factors such as age range, cultural background or language proficiency levels when choosing appropriate language and references. This helps ensure that they can relate to what you’re saying and feel included throughout your presentation.

1. Why is effective time management important?

Effective time management is important because it allows individuals to prioritize tasks efficiently based on their importance and deadline, reducing stress levels, increasing productivity, and creating a better work-life balance.

2. How can I improve my time management skills?

To improve your time management skills, you can start by identifying your priorities and setting clear goals. Break down tasks into smaller manageable chunks, create to-do lists or use digital tools to track your progress and deadlines. Implement strategies such as the Pomodoro Technique for focused work periods followed by short breaks.