Speaking tips
- Use an original opening
Attract attention with news, an anecdote, a quotation or a joke. - Use structure in your story
Use for instance:
- Past, present, future
- Tell your audience what you are going to tell them, tell them, then tell what you have told them
- What-Why-Who-Where and How. - Know your audience!
Does the audience know anything about the subject? - Are you going to talk in a formal or informal manner?
- Know what you are going to say
Write down at least the beginning and the end of your speech. Use a note with keywords. - Keep it simple
Use 'normal' language. Don't use terminology. - Make contact with your audience
Establish and keep eye contact. - Use body language
Illustrate your speech with the use of mimics and gestures.
Further reading:
The Oxford Union Guide to Successful Public Speaking
by Dr. D. Hughes and B. Phillips
London, Virgin Books, 2000 (order at amazon.com)
