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Public Speaking Experience - Tips on Public Speaking

From my experience public speaking is one of the most difficult things you can do, much less prepare for. I am the founder and president of a company which requires me to speak to people on a weekly basis. Of course I am usually speaking to a smaller number of people, maybe two to five at a time.

There are rare occasions when I must speak to more and then there is usually a podium, a stage and a presentation involved. I can speak effortlessly and intelligently to two to five people. But when it grows to 20 or more, well then I get nervous. Luckily for me it passes quickly and after five minutes I’m into the flow and all goes well. Still, it helps to do some things ahead of time to make the journey from nervous stutterer to polished speaker. Here are some things I’ve learned that may help you if you are ever called on to speak in front of a group of people.

Make Notes
Everyone losses their train of thought sometimes and making notes can save you from that awkward pause as you stare into the ceiling trying to remember what the heck you were saying. Notes can keep you on task and remind you of important points to make. Don’t read from your note cards, but don’t be afraid to look at them if you need help. And be sure you have practiced with them…many times.

Practice, Practice, Practice
I practice my presentations at least a dozen times. Considering my presentations, with Powerpoint slides, last over an hour that is a lot of my time. But I’m ready and confident when I’m on stage and that makes it worthwhile. Practice with an audience of family or friends if you have to, but be sure you get an honest critique at some point.

Expect The Worst
Most likely things will go smooth, but imagine what might go wrong and be ready when it does. It is entirely wrong to try and avoid thinking about what could go wrong, how else will you prepare for it, if you ignore the possibility. This way, if it happens, you ar ready. Finally, if yo think about what could go wrong I think you will see that, in reality, it won’t be the end of the world.

Get Relaxed
Sure, I know what you are thinking. How can I relax, I’ve got to speak in front of X number of people. What I mean is get rid of other sources of stress. Be sure to get plenty of sleep. Have your clothes picked out ahead of time. If traveling, make sure all the arrangements have been made. Do something your enjoy the day or night before, watch a comedy or whatever relaxes you.

Body Language
Nothing says I don’t know what I’m doing than having your head down, shoulders slumped and poor posture. Keep your head up, chin level with the floor and for the love of Pete, SMILE! (more…)

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Press Release Without Permission

From my experience releasing a press release about your business relationship with a company you are working with without written permission can seriously jeopardize that relationship. Check with the company you wish to write the press release about, even if you are casually mentioning them and especially when you are introducing them as a client.

Most businesses spend years perfecting and then protecting their brand awareness and aligning your company with them in the media, by writing a press release, without their express written permission can be seen as a breach of trust that can easily cause you to lose the client.

Never assume and always ask first and then get it in writing. It will save you writing letters of apology, making phone calls asking for forgiveness, asking for retractions and generally consuming your time you should be spending to cultivating new business. Even if they say no, they will respect you for taking the time to ask. And who knows, they may even say yes and give you a quote.

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