Public Speaking Tips

Recently I had the pleasure of attending a number of professional functions featuring both professional and highly regarded business people as keynote speakers.

It amazes me still how wonderful, enlightening and motivating some speakers are, and also how lacking in presentation others can be - no matter whom the audience, how much they are being paid to speak or what the "warmth" of the room is like.

Here are a couple of the tidbits I found that PROFESSIONAL speakers, motivators and trainers do that they really shouldn't! I know - I'm guilty of a couple on occasion myself!

• Jiggle change in their pockets - Please empty your pockets of all change, and keep your arms in a comfortable posture either in front of you or behind you.
  
• Speak clearly - and in some cases slowly. It's hard to provide your audience with the full effect of a joke when they can't hear you for your marble-mouth! Speak up! That's why you are standing in front; because everyone wants to HEAR what you have to say.
  
• NEVER turn your back on your audience (unless it is part of your act) Turning your back on your audience can be misinterpreted for disrespect. Show respect to your audience and keep facing them
  
• Avoid leaning for long periods of time on the podium - this can be used effectively as an emphasis prop, but when you spend the entire hour leaning on a podium, you look lazy, and de-motivating.
  

Well...that's a good start - I'm sure there are many other items that can be added here so check back for updates and other tips on public speaking, presentations and training.