Public Speaking Tips

Organization of Your Presentation

1. Research and know your topic.
2. Know your audience.
3. Prepare an introduction, body and conclusion.
4. Establish credibility at the beginning of your presentation.
5. Rehearse your presentation beforehand.
6. Anticipate questions and prepare your answers.

Non-verbal Communication

1. Dress the part and look professional.
2. Stand with good posture.
3. Keep hands out of your pockets. Use gestures to appear animated.
4. Keep eye contact with all of your audience.
5. Look for feedback from your audience.
6. Smile.

Tips to Control Nervousness

1. Arrive early so you can settle down.
2. Check all of your technical equipment beforehand.
3. Be at ease and relax. They want to listen to you. Use positive self-talk.
4. Use gentle “candle blowing breaths” to slow down your heart rate and control your breathing.
5. Tell yourself “I’m not nervous…I’m excited!” Your tension will enhance your performance.

Delivery of your Presentation

1. Warm up your voice before starting.
2. Do not read from the text or memorize your presentation.
3. Use vocal variety.
4. Control your word fillers, e.g. "uh", "okay", "ya know", "like"
5. Do not drink alcohol, coffee, milk products.
6. Do not eat or chew nuts, popcorn, or chewing gum.
7. Drink plenty of room-temperature water.

Enjoy Yourself!