Speechwriting Services
Delivery
Techniques that Bring Your Words to Life
Sheila Allee
There are three basic elements of all speeches and presentations -- we'll call them the Three V's. Verbal, Vocal and Visual.
First, there are the words you speak. Then there's the way you sound when you say those words. And finally, there's the way you look when you say those words.
If you were to rate these elements by percentage of importance, what would you decide? You may be surprised to learn that research shows the breakdown looks something like this:
Verbal: 7%
Vocal: 38%
Visual: 55%
That's right. The way you deliver your speech is 93 percent of the battle for success. But that's not to diminish the value of the words.
Remember, the words -- your message -- are why you stepped up to the podium to begin with. They're why the audience is out there listening to you.
So how do you present yourself, how do you speak in a way that wins you credibility and helps you accomplish your speech goals? I have three suggestions: Eye Contact, Body Language and Voice Control.
Eye Contact
Eye contact is at the heart of credibility. Do you tend to trust people
who won't look you in the eye? When you're in front of an audience, make
it a practice to look at individual audience members in the eye. Hold
the gaze for 5 to 10 seconds. Then move on to another person.
This will take practice, because it can be intimidating. You may find that you can only hold a gaze for a few seconds and then you have to move on. But practice eye contact. Believe it or not, in the long run it will help calm your nerves!
Body Language
Watch what you do with your hands. If you fold your arms across your chest,
you can look like you're protecting yourself from the audience. If you
put your hands in your pockets, you can look sheepish or withdrawn.
Instead, practice speaking with your hands at your side. That way, they're free to make gestures when it's appropriate.
Voice Control
Be sure you can be heard. Use a microphone if necessary.
Watch out for filler words like "um," "uh" and so forth. The best speakers have learned to talk without those crutches.
And try to vary the tone of your voice. Speaking in a monotone can alienate an audience.
BONUS TIP OF THE MONTH: When you're standing in front of an audience, put your feet shoulder width apart and point your toes straight ahead. Balance your weight slightly more on your heels. Remember to keep your hands at your side until you need them for gestures.
Next month: The Nerve Factor: Overcoming Your Fear of Public Speaking
Sheila
Allee Communications
Speechwriting
Services
"When the Write Words Matter"
Lubbock, TX
Last Updated:
September 19, 2006
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