Tip #23: Why Recording your Speech will Improve Your Public Speaking Skills
Ug! That's what I thought after hearing myself on tape. I had just recorded a presentation and was listening to it. Every "um", awkward pause, and misspoken word flew out off the mp3 and smacked me.
Listening or watching yourself on tape can be painful. That's why many speakers never record themselves. But wait! If the audience had to sit through it, so should we!
Speaking Tip #23: Improve your Speaking Skills fast by recording and listening to every presentation–twice.
What are the benefits of recording and listening/watching yourself?
- What get's evaluated get's improved. Just by listening to ourself we will improve automatically.
- Our errors will jump out at us and we can fix them.
- Minor adjustments will become clear.
When I started videotaping, I noticed I would often lick my lips and even wrinkled my forehead in an almost glaring way. The video camera gave me the brutal truth.
You can grab a digital recorder for anywhere from $30 to $100. Amazon is a great place to check. Flip phone cameras are between $100-$200. If you are serious about improving your public speaking skills, pick one up.
Why listen twice?
The first time you listen, evaluate yourself. What could your improve? What should you have left out? During the second time, just let it play as you do something else. I have been told that even if you are distracted, your subconscious mind is still picking it up.
Still not convinced about the power of recording your presentation? Try it on your next three presentations. Then compare your first presentation to the third. You'll notice a difference.
Grab your recorder and start taking your public speaking skills to a new level.
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