Public Speaking – How to Make Your Next Presentation the Best Ever
Author: Andrew Rondeau
As we know, Public Speaking causes more worry, fear and sleepless nights than almost anything else.
And remember, Public Speaking is performing and you are only as good as your last show.
The actual talking is only a small part of the problem.
You have to wrestle with visual aids, get the tone of your voice correct, ensure you have impacting body language and handle that dreaded question you have not prepared for.
Yet getting it right can be easy…if you ignore all the Public Speaking Rules
When you Publicly Present, what are you actually trying to do?
Simply communicate clearly with some passion and commitment. That’s it. Something you probably achieve every time you open your mouth.
When you present you are using skills you have been using since you were a child.
Your real fear is embedded in your own mind.
Here are a few ideas that will help tremendously:
Have you attended and completed a Public Speaking course?
Yes?
Now, forget and throw away every thing that you learned.
Why?
Because being a great Public Speaker means breaking some of the rules. And on courses you are normally only taught the rules.
So, if you want to put your hands in your pockets, do it.
If you have those little bits of cards you are holding on to for comfort, throw them away.
If you are stuck behind the podium, get out front; we want to see all of you, top to toe.
So what should you do to make your presentations stand-out?
Walk onto the stage with keenness. Add an extra bit of energy in your step. As you are walking, it’s OK to talk as well – if it feels natural for you.
And what about eye contact, I hear you say.
Have eye contact – look around the room, at the whole audience.
Just don’t stare at the audience like some mad axe murderer.
Do mad axe murderers stare? Maybe they don’t, but you know what I mean.
PowerPoint – a great tool for insomniacs
I have very rarely seen PowerPoint used well. People either just use text (which can hardly be seen), have things flying in, out and all over the place or have the same old boring images others have used – all of which is very distracting and can turn off your audience or actually send them to sleep.
Can you be scruffy or in disarray when you Public Speak?
No! Well I don’t think so. If you look shabby, the audience will think your presentation is also shabby.
Cartoon Ties Make A Huge Difference…
If your pockets are bulging with rubbish or your tie is down by your navel (or your tie is meticulously tied but it’s a cartoon one!) or your trousers are too short or your shoes are muddy, it will distract the audience. And that means they are not listening to you.
Do your best to look well dressed and well groomed.
Use these two most important points…and NOTHING will stop you getting on the stage and Publicly Speaking
1 .Don’t be perfect. Perfect presentations are D-U-L-L, dull.
Making a small mistake and laughing along with the audience makes you come across as human and further engages you with the audience.
2. Put passion into your message. That way you will rarely go wrong.
The best presenters do not use slides or glossy visual aids.
The best presenters enthuse and all that enthusiasm has to come from you.
So throw away the Public Speaking rulebook, get on that stage and wow the audience.
What are you waiting for?
Source: ArticleBase.com
Top 10 Public Speaking Skills
Author: Kevin Sinclair
Is there anything more terrifying than facing an audience of strangers and knowing you have to deliver an entertaining and informative speech?
OK, some people thrive on this type of challenge! But the vast majority of us are at least a little nervous every time we have to speak publicly. In fact, fear of public speaking is probably one of the most universal fears throughout all walks of life.
Thankfully, public speaking is a fear that can easily be overcome with a little practice and the right approach. You can use the tips below to improve your public speaking skills.
1. Be prepared and practice.
The more you know what you want to say, the better you’ll get at it. First, brainstorm the topic of your speech and research it, if you need to. Write down all the points you want to make and then organize them into an outline. Fill in the details. Once you have the essential content of your speech written (at least in your head), transfer your main ideas to index cards. Write the main idea in dark ink on the front of the card, and if you think you’ll need cues, write them on the back of the card in pencil. Then, practice your speech out loud at least 3 to 5 times. If you can, practice it in front of a friend or family member and ask them for feedback and if that’s not possible, at least practice in front of a mirror. Do it until you can talk naturally, with only a glance at your cards. Don’t ever read your speech word for word!
2. Know your audience.
The better you know your audience, the easier it will be to connect to them as you speak. When you are able to make that connection, you’ll hold their attention. And seeing that you’re doing so will increase your confidence and comfort level, making it even easier for you to speak well. So, find out everything you can about the people you’ll be speaking to. Know what their “hot topics” are, inside jokes and so on. The more you know about what makes them tick and what interests them, the better speech you’ll be able to give.
3. Dress the part.
When you’re standing up in front of an audience, all eyes are on you. Like it or not, your image is important in this situation. So, dress to impress this particular audience. If you know your audience well (see #2), then you’ll have an idea how to dress. For example, you might dress in a conservative navy suit if you’re speaking to a group of bankers, but in a more casual, fashionable outfit when the audience consists of artists and designers.
4. Pay attention to the old KISS principle, that is, Keep It Short and Simple.
The key is to get your points across as quickly as possible. Don’t beat around the bush or try to impress with complex metaphors. Stories, however, can be a powerful public speaking tool, especially when they contain at least a hint of humor. But again, keep them short and on point. Shorter messages leave the impression of a savvy, smart speaker. They’re also easier for your audience to remember.
5. Speak clearly and at just the right tempo.
The mark of an inexperienced, uncomfortable public speaker is someone who speaks all in a rush, slurring words in her desire to get it over with. Don’t be this kind of speaker if you want to hold your audience’s attention. On the other hand, don’t speak so slowly your audience’s minds start to wander.
6. Use visual aids to illustrate your points.
Many people will understand your message more clearly when it is more visual. What we see often leaves a more lasting impression than what we hear. You can use slides, photographs, PowerPoint presentations, or even a simple whiteboard to add visual cues to your speech. One caution though – don’t turn your back on your audience as you use your visual aid, and don’t turn the lights on low for long periods, or you might be surprised to look up and see they are all sleeping!
7. Interact with your audience.
Lectures will rarely have the same impact on an audience that an open discussion will. Look for opportunities to involve your audience in what you are speaking about. Ask for validation of points you are making (“Am I right?” “Has that ever happened to you?”) or allow time for questions. Also, make sure to establish eye contact with your audience, and keep it throughout your speech.
8. Speak with sincerity and passion.
You want to leave a lasting impression with the audience about your speech topic. So be sure you are true to yourself and your topic as you speak and don’t be afraid to inject passion and enthusiasm into the speech as well.
9. Come out from behind the podium.
You’ll project confidence and a sense of comfort when you have the courage to let go of the podium and stand in front of your audience with nothing to “protect” you. As you speak, you can walk back and forth across the stage, making eye contact with different people. Some speakers even walk out into the audience to get “up close and personal.” Be respectful of people’s personal space, though, if you decide to do this. You don’t want to be perceived as threatening or overbearing.
10. Close your speech in a memorable way.
Give your audience something to think about as you finish up your speech. Certainly, it’s a good idea to summarize your main points one more time, but then finish up with an inspiring story or quote, or leave them with a thought-provoking question.
Public speaking is an essential life skill that every person should strive to master. The ability to speak confidently in public will serve you in every part of your life, whether you are sharing opinions in a small group or delivering a planned speech in front of a group of hundreds.
Source: ArticleBase.com
The Art of Public Speaking: Visual Aids and Graphics
Author: SIMON GARMAH
We all know that a picture is worth 1000 words.But, do we really convert a picture into 1000 words? Do we pick up the right picture that equals this number of words?
Studies conducted all over the world show that integrating visual aids into presentations can dramatically enhance the effectiveness and the efficiency of a given presentation by up to 50%. So you can see the unfair advantage that a presenter who uses visual aids over the one who does not. Massive difference, right?
With all that being said, we must bring into the table the fact that most of today’s presenters misuse these graphics; therefore, screw everything up and consequently, instead of boosting up their presentation’s effectiveness, they reduce it to the nadir, by getting less or no impact on the audience.
The above reason brings us to what this little article is written for? Simply put, to help get the most out of your presentation using visual aids as the experts in this game do. So the followings are some tips that if put into practice can produce the desired outcomes.
- Create visuals that help them understand better what you utter. What you say should align what is in the graphics.
- Make sure that each visual communicates only one idea. Do not puzzle them with too much ideas conveyed within one graphic.
- Choose the best visuals that suit your audience, objectives and environment. Too many complications won’t serve your expectations.
- Bear in mind that the most important element in the presentation is YOU. Do not let the graphics to take the focus away foam you. They may be the most important tools, but what you say must be more important than your tools.
- And finally, make sure that your visuals are working before you enter the presentation room.Otherwise; you know what going to happen.
In summary, The are just aids. no more, no less.undoubtedly,good visuals are able to determine the final results of your presentation.So,use them smartly. And remember, visuals are to add, not to block, communication.
Source: ArticleBase.com
Public Speaking as a Tool for Controlling the Masses
Author: zander
Those among us who learn and perfect the art of public speaking attain the means and the power to control and even suppress the rest of us. This world is run by those who can express themselves better and convince his or her fellows that he or she has their interest at heart. If the masses listen and perceive that you understand and express their concern in a way they understand, they place the responsibility of determining their lives entirely on your hands. That is why the finest orators in our society are always leaders of different causes.
Essentially, public speaking is a process of speaking to a group using a creatively structured speech, a deliberate style and manner intended to subjectively inform on matters important to the speaker. If a public speaker can convince, interest and entertain the listeners in a way that influences their convictions and consequent decisions, that is successful public speaking. Results of a public speech are always gauged by its influence on listeners and how effectively it coerces them to assume a particular course of action or behavior.
Simply put, the essence of public speaking rests in controlling the behavior, beliefs and actions of the masses. Most leaders are voted into offices because their speeches best- expressed a message that resonated with the wishes of the masses. Let’s get practical. The immediate former US president, George W. Bush, was voted back to the office because he successfully convinced the American voting public that the priority concern of their nation was to successfully wage an anti-terrorism campaign. When John McCain a fellow republican used an almost similar platform in the last general election, he lost.
In fact, Obama a nice inspirational black speakers is now the president because he successfully convinced the same voting public that war and vengeance was outdated and that America needed to spearhead peace initiatives even with known terrorist-harboring nations. There you have it. It is never about the message. Never about the person. It is all about who uses the public forum successfully to convince, influence and then control the masses’ point of view. Power is granted to those who best use the tool of to express a message that the masses can feel have a meaning for them.
Source: ArticleBase.com
New Focus in the Bag Market – Reusable Bag
Author: Janey Yang
Anya Hindmarch’s trendy “I am Not A Plastic Bag” design makes enormous gains in popularity, which sold out of London stores just hours after being released. The aim of the design is simple — to encourage people not to use plastic carrier bags. The simple bag has become a symbol of ethical intent – and a very fashionable one at that.
The popularity of this bag should be proof that consumers are willing and excited to have some non-plastic reusable alternatives. Hindmarch told the media: “I hate the idea of making the environment trendy, but you need to make it cool and then it becomes a habit.”
We are now pleased to see all kinds of reusable bags step into the market and become a focus. Bag manufacturers have sensed this trend and making actions.
Reusable Fabric Options – No More Plastic Bag
String bag: This bag is completely lightweight yet able to carry a lot of groceries. The best thing about it is its ability to stretch, so just when you think you’ve fit all that, you can still throw in that last stuff. Meanwhile, the problem with the string bag is its lack of structure when loading and also the perception that it could be unsanitary, especially when it comes to food.
Lightweight Nylon: The cool thing about this alternative is that it fits in with the current system for bagging groceries at the check-out counter. It is a more durable but still lightweight material compared to the plastic bag. But again it lacks structure when loading.
Heavy Duty Nylon: This bag is made to last a lifetime. Tote bag often made of this heavy nylon. It resembles a traditional paper grocery bag with some added handles; it stands nicely on its own for easy packing. However with that durability and quality of materials come a not-so-compact package. It folds similarly to a paper grocery bag.
Each of them has its advantages and disadvantages. The thing is, they all have the potential to save thousands of throw away PGBs from plastic bags.
Supplementary to Typical Leather Handbag or Designer Bag
At first blush, the trend of reusable shopping bags would seem at odds with the explosive growth of high-end handbags. But it turns out that some consumers are eager to walk around with a $1,000 Coach purse on one arm and the Coach shopping bag it came in on the other.
Until recently, high-priced, top-of-the-line imported handbags were a status symbol. But today, designer goods have flooded the market, are no longer as exclusive as they once were. Every woman needs a leather handbag or a designer bag, but they also need a practical bag, such as a tote bag or shopping bag for holding many stuff that their leather bag can’t handle, such as A4 document, a cup of coffee, lunch box, some big accessories…
For example, last summer in 2007, many women in china are choosing straw bags for their reasonable price, their suitability for the summer season, and the possibility of matching them up with many different styles. The best of all, it is nature and reusable.
Pattern and Style Choice
Environmental friendly people want to be associated and seen with natural fabric bags. Available in soft and natural hues, some bags ooze class and concern. Multicolored patchwork bags, printed bags, embroidered and embossed bags are everyone’s favorite.
In bag related trade shows, lots of design elements and latest fashion trend is revealed. Certain bags are cute, featuring a corsage, embroidered beads, or braided ribbons as decoration, while others are more flashy, featuring rhinestones, of are inspired by classic Asian styles, with wooden beads or sea shells. There are bags for all outfits and occasions. Some women at fireworks festivals and other summer events this year prefer carrying straw bags. Some bags can be paired with dresses for a softer, more feminine look, but they also go will with slightly mannish short-sleeved jackets and pants sets and suits. Anyway, versatility is an appeal.
Popular Items – Straw Bag, Tote Bag in Green Design
Tote Shopping Bag – Big and Practical
Big is the fashion. Bags get bigger with cooler weather because you have more to carry (umbrellas, wraps, hats). Nearly every woman has at least one tote bag, whether it’s for a day at the beach, a picnic, browsing at the flea market or just a day at the mall. After all, a good tote bag is very popular – an absolutely indispensable item. Because canvas tote bags come in a variety of designs and styles, you can match them with coordinating sandals, a t-shirt, gym clothes, or your favorite dress. You can make a bold fashion statement with these versatile bags. Tote bags can replace traditional plastic and paper shopping bags. After you use the tote bags for groceries, fold them and place them near the door so you can pick them up next time on your way.
Straw Fashion
Straw handbags combine colorful and funky designs with the latest trends for natural looks and environment-friendly statements, carrying a unique appeal to consumers. Compared to the conventional leather and fabric handbags, they are much lighter. The use of natural grass also fits in with the trend for environmental protection, while many handbags even come as “natural” straw to accentuate their appeal – and probably even enhance health requirements for the product.
Trend or Demand for Future Reusable Bag Industry
The reusable bag is still the bag of choice for most occasions under the prevailing theme about environment protection. So people would strive to make it better, and the solution should be a bag that is, (I mean many kinds of bag suited to different occasions):
1 Easily folded flat, both for storage at the checkout counter and for refolding for the return journey;
2 Relatively inexpensive to produce, so the supermarket and grocery stores would use it in greater amount not worrying about their cost control.
3 Made of durable, sustainable materials that give the bag structure but also keep it lightweight;
4 Easy to carry, possibly in different configurations (traditional handles, over the shoulder, etc);
5 Has an appropriate strategy for end-of-life disposal when it is finally properly disposed of after a lifetime of good use.
6 Not only durable and long lasting, but also attractive, comfortable and classy.
The last point means that the reusable bags can also be connected to “fashion”. When you think of the “I’m not a plastic bag” craze though many western countries recently.
Alluring Business Potential for Reusable Bags in this Eco-friendly Market Atmosphere
Use of recyclable and reusable bags has now been promoted as a lifestyle. In cities like New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, customers have begun treating eco-friendly bags such as nylon bag as an indispensable accessory that can be reused for weeks, even months, to carry laundry to the cleaners, books to the beach or lunch to the office.
These bags are the most popular choice for both corporate as well as personal gifting. So stores or manufacturers, sensing a marketing opportunity, are racing to a heated competition to make the most durable, fashionable reusable bags. From upscale emporiums to midprice chains, retailers are investing millions of dollars in new flourishes like plastic-coated paper and heavy fabric cord handles.
Source: ArticleBase.com