Practice your presentation multiple times, ideally with people you’re comfortable with. You can also videotape yourself to identify areas for improvement. Many people are afraid to speak in front of people, which prevents many from moving forward.
Developing your public speaking skills can put you at a big advantage in your career, as it can lead to opportunities that others may avoid.
Practical Voice and Breath Control
Breath control can help you do this. Practice using your stomach to push air in and out of your lungs. Before you begin public speaking, take 10 slow, deep breaths. It will help calm your nerves and allow the audience to better understand what you say.
Know Your Audience
Knowing who your audience will be will help you determine what points are important to include.
It also gives you an idea of what your tone should be for your presentation. If you are in a business meeting, you should not tell any jokes or stories.
Practice makes perfect
The old saying that practice makes perfect is true today because only by doing it repeatedly can you become perfect. Try taking a few extra minutes a day to bring up points in meetings or with friends so you’re better at speaking with others.
Record your speeches
Record your public speaking performances on camera so you can go back and watch yourself. Examine your body language, how your voice sounds. Even the best speakers do this on a regular basis and often find ways they can improve their public speaking skills.
Take a Public Speaking Class
By taking public speaking classes, students gain critical skills that rapidly improve their ability to speak and present to audiences. If you wish to improve your public speaking skills when giving virtual presentations, consider an online public speaking course.
If you want to learn how to talk in front of a live audience, an in-person class may be the better option. You may also be able to find student clubs that can help you practice your public speaking skills.
Practice in front of a mirror
Practicing in front of a mirror will give you an idea of how you look to others. You can see if your posture is correct, if you’re maintaining eye contact, or if there are any points in your speech where you lose your thought.
Give a test run to a friend or family member
It’s important to practice in front of people before you go up and give your presentation. Doing it in front of a friend or family member will keep you at ease and make it easier to practice in the way you’ve been speaking.
They can give feedback on what you should change, and you’ll have a much better presentation to give because of it.
Focus on eye contact
Making eye contact with those in the room shows a connection and gives off confidence in your speaking ability. Not that you have to stare down everyone in the room, but eye contact is important. Eye contact is important when speaking in public.