Public Speaking

What is Public Speaking?

Public Speaking involves communicating information before a large audience.
What makes public speaking different than, say, just talking to a crowd of people, is
in the way information is conveyed.
In public speaking, the information is purposeful and meant to inform, influence or
entertain a group of listeners.

Forms of Public Speaking

Speech
A talk given to a large gathering. Its content is light.
Given on occasions like an anniversary, inauguration, welcome and introduction,
farewell, and send-off and condolence.
Its purpose is usually to encourage, appreciate, congratulate or entertain.
Followed by applause from the audience.
Presentation
Delivered to small knowledgeable audience. Its content is heavy.
Given at a conference, a seminar or a business meeting.
Its purpose is to inform, explain, persuade or present a point of view.
Followed by questions from the audience.
Essentials of Good Public Speaking
1. Finding out about the environment in which the talk is to be delivered
The Venue
a. Physical environment
b. Seating arrangement
c. Speakers position
d. Lighting
e. Ventilation
f. Visual and equipment, and its position
The Organizers
 g. Name of the organization
h. Name of the president, secretary and any other person sitting on the
dais with you.
The Occasion
i. Know what is the occasion
j. Tailor your speech/presentation according to the occasion
Time available
k. Check the time that has been allotted to you

2. Preparing the Text

Length
Find out your own speed
Style
Use simple words and avoid using phrases
Humor
Adding humor makes it more interesting and personal and audience more
attentive
Composition of Presentation
Introductory remarks, the main body and closing remarks
Opening
Introductory remarks are for building rapport, focusing attention and arousing
interest
Body and Conclusion
For the body of the speech, keep in mind the objective
Conclude effectively, not abruptly
Invite questions from the audience
3. Speakers Appearance and Personality
Comfortable Posture
Practice a good standing posture and pace
Eye contact
Eye contact is important to create rapport with the audience
 Movement
Too much movement distracts the audiences attention

4. Practicing Delivery
Most important for beginners
Can be done in front of a mirror and then before any helpful audience
It will help to check the timing of your speech
Speech should never be mechanically learned by heart. Forgetting even a
single word can create huge confusion.

Speech should never be mechanically learned by heart. Forgetting even a single

word can create huge confusion.