{"id":8258,"date":"2022-07-20T08:00:01","date_gmt":"2022-07-20T08:00:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/?p=8258"},"modified":"2023-11-27T16:09:39","modified_gmt":"2023-11-27T16:09:39","slug":"how-to-improve-public-speaking-skills","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-improve-public-speaking-skills\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Ways to Sharpen Your Public Speaking Skills"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting ready to make your Maid of Honor speech at your best friend&#8217;s wedding? Important presentation coming up that could lead to a promotion at work?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sounds like it&#8217;s time to <\/span><b>brush up your public speaking skills.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> And good news &#8211; look no further.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are my <\/span><b>9 public speaking tips<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to take your speech to the next level:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>See Related:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-be-confident-in-public-speaking\/\">7 Secrets for Becoming a Confident Public Speaker<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b>Why are public speaking skills important?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don&#8217;t need to be a<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/learn.org\/articles\/Newscasting_Become_a_Newscaster_in_5_Steps.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">newscaster<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or high school principal to benefit from <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-hold-a-microphone-when-speaking\/\">public speaking skills<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opportunities to speak publicly can pop up <\/span><b>at the drop of a hat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. When they occur, you will thank yourself for being prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Here are a few scenarios in which you&#8217;ll thank yourself for practicing public speaking:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A colleague gets sick and you need to step up for a big presentation<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your friend is struggling to get the audience&#8217;s attention at an<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shutterfly.com\/ideas\/how-to-plan-an-anniversary-party\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anniversary party<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A local university asks you to speak to their seniors about your successful career<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>But I&#8217;m already a solid public speaker!<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That may very well be. But do professional athletes stop training because they already won a game? No; they <\/span><b>continue pushing themselves to improve<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and get stronger.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you want to learn how to improve public speaking skills, start <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">here<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>#1: Pay attention to your body language and facial expressions<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shows like <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Voice<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbc.com\/americas-got-talent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">America&#8217;s Got Talent<\/span><\/i><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">American Idol<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can be fun to watch. There are talented vocalists, of course, but they&#8217;re not just mesmerizing to listen to. <\/span><b>They know how to put on a <\/b><b><i>show<\/i><\/b><b>.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What I&#8217;m trying to say is that <\/span><b>visuals are a huge part of a successful presentation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. And by visuals, I mean <\/span><b>what your body and your face are doing<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>The bread and butter of good public speaking skills are body language and facial expressions. This means:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Standing up straight to exude confidence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conveying with your body that the audience members should focus on you<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Identifying and nixing nervous gestures that distract the audience from your message<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And so much more!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Translating expressions into good public speaking means:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Looking in the mirror and practicing your expressions for different circumstances<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What does your face do when you are telling a joke? How about when you are presenting serious information?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Knowing when and when <\/b><b><i>not<\/i><\/b><b> to react to what is happening at the event<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a speaker, it is your job to keep your cool and guide the audience confidently. If a mishap occurs, keep your expressions <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/why-is-it-important-to-stay-calm-under-pressure\/\">calm and unfazed<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the same time, be spontaneous enough to <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/force-majeure-clause\/\">make the most of unexpected twists<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Grasping that the expression you <\/b><b><i>think<\/i><\/b><b> you are making may not be the one you actually are<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">We&#8217;re all guilty of this sometimes! You&#8217;re listening to a conversation thinking that your face reads as supportive and interested. But later, your friend asks why you were so upset. Upset?<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"3\"><b>Mirror work can help.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Observe your expressions carefully; you will develop an understanding of how the muscles in your face feel.<\/span>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"4\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With practice, you can replicate those expressions without needing to see what you look like!<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8264\" src=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-brown-hair-in-blue-button-down-shirt-makes-speech-to-group-of-people-excited-to-listen-to-their-message.jpg\" alt=\"Person with brown hair in blue button down shirt makes speech to group of people excited to listen to their message\" width=\"1350\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-brown-hair-in-blue-button-down-shirt-makes-speech-to-group-of-people-excited-to-listen-to-their-message.jpg 1350w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-brown-hair-in-blue-button-down-shirt-makes-speech-to-group-of-people-excited-to-listen-to-their-message-300x160.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-brown-hair-in-blue-button-down-shirt-makes-speech-to-group-of-people-excited-to-listen-to-their-message-1024x546.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-brown-hair-in-blue-button-down-shirt-makes-speech-to-group-of-people-excited-to-listen-to-their-message-768x410.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/span><b>#2: Practice maintaining eye contact<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This can feel uncomfortable for many people &#8211; namely why not many people <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/what-is-the-role-of-the-master-of-ceremonies\/\">are masters of ceremonies<\/a>. But<\/span><b> eye contact helps you stay connected to the audience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when public speaking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It brings you back to the fact that <\/span><b>you are just having a conversation with these people<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Like you would chat with a friend! Conceptually, it&#8217;s quite simple: look them in the eye and exchange words.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Of course, we know it is anything but simple in reality.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Here&#8217;s a trick from the world of theater and film<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;re just getting used to eye contact, try this: <\/span><b>instead of looking people directly in the eye, look at the space right between their eyes.<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>This tactic can help ease social anxiety.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It connects the audience to you while you ease into the vulnerability of full eye contact. It appears like you are looking at their eyes, but provides a layer of safety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eventually, you will feel ready to graduate to actually looking the audience in the eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>#3: Focus on your breathing<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Taking mindful breaths is one of the most vital <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/what-is-ethos-in-public-speaking\/\">public speaking skills<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Why is deep breathing so important to good delivery in public speaking?<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It allows you moments to <\/span><b>check in with yourself<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> throughout your speech<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It encourages you to <\/span><b>speak slowly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so that everyone can understand you<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It gives you the opportunity to release negative thoughts and <\/span><b>ground yourself<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Practice diaphragmatic breathing<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A great public speaker knows how to engage their core while breathing. <\/span><b>What does this mean?<\/b><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.medicalnewstoday.com\/articles\/diaphragmatic-breathing#:~:text=Diaphragmatic%20breathing%2C%20or%20%E2%80%9Cbelly%20breathing,the%20lungs%20fill%20more%20efficiently.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b>Diaphragmatic breathing<\/b><\/a><b><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"> is the practice of mindfully using your diaphragm to take deep breaths<\/span>.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This is different from how we breathe every day.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually, we don&#8217;t take very deep breaths. So, we don&#8217;t usually take advantage of our full lung capacities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>But if you engage your diaphragm, you reap the benefits of using your full lung capacity.<\/b><\/p>\n<h4><b>Greater lung capacity allows you to:<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Deliver words with a clear, resonant voice<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid running out of breath mid-speech<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete lengthy sentences on a single breath<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Incorporate mindfulness and confidence into your presentation style<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8262\" src=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message.jpg\" alt=\"Person in yellow dress and black boots walks onstage in darkly lit theater to deliver a presentation with an important message\" width=\"1350\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message.jpg 1350w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-and-black-boots-walks-onstage-in-darkly-lit-theater-to-deliver-a-presentation-with-an-important-message-900x600.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/span><b>#4: Prepare materials that highlight your main points<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you were in school, don&#8217;t you wish you could&#8217;ve brought your notes into the testing room? I probably would have done a lot better in math&#8230;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Guess what? When you&#8217;re <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-get-over-fear-of-public-speaking\/\">speaking publicly<\/a>, you can bring your notes!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Come prepared with any materials that will help you do your best.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This may mean:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A slide deck<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Handheld notes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visual aids like charts<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Multimedia content<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Get creative and really <\/span><b>think about which type of aid will fold seamlessly into your presentation.<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>If you prepare material to support your key points:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will <\/span><b>feel confident<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> moving from one point to the next point<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will help the audience feel <\/span><b>well-guided <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">throughout the whole speech<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support such as a visual aid can <\/span><b>help the audience<\/b> <b>focus<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on your speech<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bottom line is that <\/span><b>you don&#8217;t have to be alone up there<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. In fact, incorporating notes or visual aids can take your speech to the next level of sophistication.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Bonus:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-increase-job-satisfaction-in-the-workplace\/\">5 Invigorating Ways to Boost Employee Job Satisfaction<\/a><\/p>\n<h2><b>#5: Ask friends to be your audience members<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/why-are-people-skills-important\/\">Tons of people<\/a> have public speaking anxiety and\/or<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/basics\/stage-fright\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">stage fright<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It&#8217;s totally normal! If this applies to you, don&#8217;t worry &#8211; it is completely understandable.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After all, <\/span><b>public speaking is a vulnerable thing to do.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You are often the center of attention, and the audience is looking to you for guidance.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While common, it is important to work on overcoming this fear. Once you do, you can step into your full power as a speaker.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>To overcome a fear of public speaking and improve your public speaking skills, try this:<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Practice and rehearse with friends as your audience. Put together a mock public speaking engagement!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Invite friends or family whom you trust and understand social anxiety.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You will improve your public speaking by receiving feedback from your loved ones on:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your body language<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your sense of humor<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether or not you conveyed confidence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you came across as nervous<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8265\" src=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage.jpg\" alt=\"Person with salt and pepper hair in business suit holds handheld microphone and gestures as they make a speech as they stand on a small stage\" width=\"1350\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage.jpg 1350w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-with-salt-and-pepper-hair-in-business-suit-holds-handheld-microphone-and-gestures-as-they-make-a-speech-as-they-stand-on-a-small-stage-900x600.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/span><b>Taking constructive criticism can be challenging.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, <\/span><b>it is<\/b> <b>necessary to become a great speaker<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Creating a safe environment in which to practice and receive feedback is a great way to get used to it.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>#6: Seek out low-stakes speaking gigs<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ready to work on your speaking skills, but not quite prepared for a TED Talk? Understandable!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to practice your public speaking skills in less intense settings. (I would not recommend signing up <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/event-host\/\">to be an event host<\/a> right off the bat.)<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Seize the opportunity to practice public speaking by:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Volunteering to <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/christmas-toast\/\">give a toast<\/a> at your friend&#8217;s wedding<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stepping up to welcome runners to a<\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.capitalbusiness.net\/resources\/how-to-plan-a-5k-for-your-nonprofit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5K charity event<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Presenting a silly PowerPoint presentation to a family member on their birthday<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Asking your manager if you can lead the next team meeting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/emcee-skills\/\">most skills<\/a>, <\/span><b>the best way to get better at public speaking is by <\/b><b><i>doing<\/i><\/b><b>.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You can study roller skating, but the most effective way to learn is by lacing up yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>#7: Record your speeches and watch them back<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a great way to enhance your public speaking skills.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many great public speakers record speeches, then review them.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Here are some of the benefits of watching your speech:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It teaches you to look at your speech with an objective and critical eye<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You will have greater confidence the next time you walk onstage because you&#8217;ve studied<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is easy to identify areas of improvement, as well as positive ones that <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-celebrate-with-remote-employees\/\">you should celebrate<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I think that this can help you overcome a fear of public speaking, too. Studying your speech helps you separate the personal from the professional.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8263\" src=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting.jpg\" alt=\"Person in yellow dress holds microphone and makes presentation to group of people standing around them who will engage in conversation when they are done presenting\" width=\"1350\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting.jpg 1350w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-yellow-dress-holds-microphone-and-makes-presentation-to-group-of-people-standing-around-them-who-will-engage-in-conversation-when-they-are-done-presenting-900x600.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/span><b>#8: Watch your favorite public speakers for inspiration<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is one of my favorites! To give a great speech, it is so important for you to feel inspired. <\/span><b>You will captivate your audience when they feel passion in the way you talk.<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>Head to YouTube and watch your favorite:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hosts of the Academy Awards who had you rollicking and excited<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Comedians who had you wishing their 1-hour Netflix special was longer<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Presenters at the Kennedy Center Honors who touched your heart<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>To become a great public speaker, you must release pride and ego.<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be a constant student. Listen and learn when you&#8217;re in the audience. You are never too experienced to practice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>#9: Fake it til you make it<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><b>Here&#8217;s a secret: no one is totally comfortable speaking in public. <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/hire-an-mc-for-corporate-events\/\">Even event emcees<\/a>!<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may never feel 100% ready to lead that presentation. But at some point, you have to get up there and try!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even if you are reeling with nerves on the inside, you can still give a captivating speech. Here&#8217;s how to sound confident, even when you don&#8217;t feel that way:<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Don&#8217;t be afraid to use the tools on your belt:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Speak with a confident voice<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (well-paced, even, supported with breath)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stand up straight<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as you make your presentation &#8211; you will exude confidence<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Smile and look at the audience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> so they feel confident in your abilities<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use these tools and I promise the audience won&#8217;t guess you were half as nervous as you felt!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8261\" src=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone.jpg\" alt=\"Person in blue business suit makes presentation and stands on small stage and faces audience excited to hear them talk while holding microphone\" width=\"1350\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone.jpg 1350w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/person-in-blue-business-suit-makes-presentation-and-stands-on-small-stage-and-faces-audience-excited-to-hear-them-talk-while-holding-microphone-900x600.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1350px) 100vw, 1350px\" \/><\/span><b>Let&#8217;s review!<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before your next <a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/why-is-public-speaking-so-hard\/\">speaking engagement<\/a>, remember these tips to up your public speaking game:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#1: Pay attention to your body language and facial expressions<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#2: Practice maintaining eye contact<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#3: Focus on your breathing<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#4: Prepare materials that highlight your focus points<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#5: Ask friends to be your audience members<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#6: Seek out low-stakes speaking gigs<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#7: Record your speeches and watch them back<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#8: Watch your favorite public speakers for inspiration<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><b>#9: Fake it til you make it<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With that, you are ready to sharpen your public speaking skills. You can do this!<\/span><\/p>\n<p>Keep Reading:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/why-are-company-values-important\/\">8 Reasons Why Company Values Are Important<\/a><\/p>\n<p>\u2014<\/p>\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/\">Adam Christing<\/a>\u00a0has been called \u201cThe Tom Brady of emcees.\u201d He has hosted more than 1,000\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/hire-an-mc-for-corporate-events\/\">company meetings<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/hire-funny-keynote-motivational-speakers\/\">special events<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/corporate-comedian-entertainer\/\">gala celebrations<\/a>, and more. He is the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/author\/\">author of several books<\/a>\u00a0and founder of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cleancomedians.com\/hire-a-master-of-ceremonies\/\">CleanComedians.com<\/a>.<\/em>\u00a0<em>For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/adamchristing\/?hl=en\">Instagram<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AdamChristing\/\">Facebook<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/adamchristing\/\">Pinterest<\/a>,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/adam-christing\">LinkedIn<\/a>, and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=Ide5OJTq4VE\">YouTube<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Getting ready to make your Maid of Honor speech at your best friend&#8217;s wedding? Important presentation coming up that could lead to a promotion at work? Sounds like it&#8217;s time to brush up your public&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8260,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[34,44],"tags":[63,87,193,198],"class_list":{"0":"post-8258","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-corporate-mc","8":"category-post","9":"tag-how-to","10":"tag-public-speaking","11":"tag-speaking-anxiety","12":"tag-speaking-tips"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v21.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>9 Ways to Sharpen Your Public Speaking Skills | Adam Christing<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/adamchristing.com\/blog\/how-to-improve-public-speaking-skills\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"9 Ways to Sharpen Your Public Speaking Skills | Adam Christing\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Getting ready to make your Maid of Honor speech at your best friend&#8217;s wedding? 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