Imagine you have to give a speech in 5 days. It could be a college class speech, business speech, or even a wedding speech. How do you prepare for this public speaking event? Here are four steps that will help you create an excellent speech.
Step #1: Choose your topic
I used to waste hours and hours thinking of a topic to speak on. Then I discovered a brain storming tip which has helped me choose speech topics.
Take two minutes and write out 10 topics you could talk about. For an example I could brainstorm these topics:
- How to reach your goals
- Lessons I learned from my first job
- Three qualities every good leader has
- How to overcome fear of public speaking
- How to improve your public speaking skills fast
- How to write a book in 90 days
- Why a cruise is a great vacation
- Funny moments in child raising
- Overcome procrastination
- Organization made easy
In two minutes I have a list of topics. After two minutes select the best three and analyze them.
Pick the best one. Don’t waste a lot of time choosing a topic. Find something you are interested in, know something about, and meet the expectations of the audience, meeting planner, or professor.
If you don’t like the best one, repeat the entire process. Within 10 minutes you’ll either have your topic or a nice number to choose
from.
Step #2: Write out your speech or make a detailed outline
The first time I gave a thirty minute speech, I did not use notes. Worse, I had not even practiced it. I rambled. I was boring. I was very discouraged afterwords. None of that would have happened if I had used this step.
The process of putting your thoughts on paper can double the quality of your speech. If you don’t write it out word for word, make a detailed outline with points.
Step #3: Practice, Practice, Practice
You can reduce your nerves by up to 83% through good preparation. Now take your notes and practice out-loud. Practice while your walking around the house, showering, or during the advertisements of favorite TV show. (By the way TV stands for “time vacuum”)
There is no substitute for good practice!
Mentally practice in the theater of your mind. This will help implant your speech into your mind.
Step #4: Deliver with power and confidence
Backed with solid preparation, you will be able to stand up and speak with power and confidence. Make eye contact. Have enthusiasm. Smile. Your public speaking presentation will be great.
(C) Arlen Busenitz – Speakinginfo.com
