Communication skills are one thing that sets apart successful people from the rest. As the leader of an organization, you need to master public speaking. Given your position, people look up to you. Your opinions and how you present them matters. It is a skill that has made even the most successful world leaders stumble. However, they mastered it by working towards it.
If you are gearing to deliver a speech at your company's annual meeting or invited as a keynote speaker at a high-profile event, here are some communication aspects you should master.
Pitch and pace
Your pitch as a speaker sets the tone. Check if you are loud or too soft for anyone to hear you. Work on your pitch by practicing. Keep modulating it to ensure the speech does not get monotonous. Use a higher pitch to emphasize key points. Your speech pace is another aspect to pay attention to. If it is too fast, it indicates nervousness and makes it difficult for the audience to understand what you say.
Remember that you are trying to create an impact and not just get done with it. Slow down and let it happen naturally.
Eye contact
The thought of speaking before a room full of audience can be scary. But the only way to overcome fears is by looking them in the eyes. When you talk to the audience, all eyes are on you. To ensure that you grab the attention of every person, ensure to make eye contact. Even for a few seconds, try to interact personally with everyone in the room. Make them a part of your story.
Relevance
A common challenge with public speaking is sticking to the point. We are sure you have been in a situation where you narrate a moving story, and the audience loves it, but you fail to make your point. Being overwhelmed with the audience's reaction, your thoughts get swayed away. Remember, it is your message through the speech that creates an impact.
Be clear of what you speak. Filter your thoughts. Narrow down the message into a single sentence. It should be loud and clear and something the audience resonates with.
Body language
How you enter the room portrays your command throughout the show. Your body language should appear confident. Avoid leaning on the podium. Take the center stage and let the audience see you. Do not fidget and be hands-free. Try to be as relaxed as possible. The more relaxed and confident, the more effortlessly you deliver your speech.
Sign up for communication skills training program if you struggle with public speaking. Remember, public speaking is a skill. You can always learn and master it with enough training.
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