Whether it is for an important business pitch, a political speech, a presentation or even in social situations like parties, weddings or funerals, being called upon to speak in public is something that fills many people with dread.
Seemingly, all but a few talented individuals will stumble over their words, ramble on or freeze with embarrassment, but an insightful new book reveals how with the right advice, tricks and techniques, anyone can learn how to be brilliant at public speaking.
Using a fresh, fun approach with simple tools, techniques and memorable illustrations, the book explains the six qualities that everyone, from novices to experienced speakers, will need to really engage and inspire an audience:
- Awareness: 70% of the population experience communication anxiety when asked to deliver a speech, so make yourself aware of the root causes of your fear to avoid making the same mistakes again.
- Empathy: Public speaking is about the audience, not you, so get in their heads and focus on how they will benefit from your speech.
- Balance: Focus on the one compelling idea that could change your audience’s world and build your content around it. It should be one gourmet dish, not an all you can eat buffet.
- Freshness: Paint pictures with words, repeat key words, use visual aids and make it interactive to really engage an audience.
- Fearlessness: Visualise yourself into success and step boldly from your comfort zone in order to benefit your audience.
- Authenticity: Audiences will warm to speakers they trust, and the best way to win them over is to be a genuine human and speak from the heart. Each individual can develop their own unique approach and style of public speaking.
By Sarah Lloyd-Hughes, founder of Ginger Training & Coaching.
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