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The Art of Public Speaking: Fundamental Steps to Improvement


I've been in media production for over 30 years and taught digital media arts for over a decade. One of the biggest hurdles to success that I've noted over these many years has been speaking in public or in front of a camera. It always amazed me how terrified people are of this act, even when they are naturally gifted. I can't tell you how many times I was working with other teachers to create instructional materials and they would freeze when the camera was turned on, even though they gave the presentation countless times over a long career. This skill is one of the most important that you can master, not just within the realm of media, but in life. It will help build confidence, and increase effective communication in every aspect of your life, so dig in, learn, practice and you'll notice vast improvements in your life! Let's look as some fundamentals. Public speaking is more than just delivering words; it’s about engaging your audience and making a memorable impact. Whether speaking in-person or online, using effective body language, voice modulation, eye contact, and even humor and story telling, can transform your presentation from average to inspiring. Below are some essential tips and techniques to elevate your public speaking game:

1. Body Gestures: The Silent Message

Your body can communicate confidence before you even start speaking. Here are a few suggestions on how to use gestures effectively:

  • Open Hands: Holding your hands open with palms facing the audience conveys honesty and transparency.

  • Purposeful Movement: Walk around naturally, but avoid pacing. Movements should align with your words to emphasize points.

  • Avoid Fidgeting: Nervous gestures, such as tapping or shifting weight excessively, can distract from your message. If you're sitting in a chair, don't swivel.

2. Verbal Delivery and Voice Inflection

Your voice carries the emotional weight of your speech:

  • Vary Your Tone: Emphasize key words to highlight important points, and use inflection to convey excitement or seriousness.

  • Pauses: Strategic pauses give the audience a moment to reflect and create anticipation for your next words. Silence can be your friend.

  • Projection: Ensure your voice is loud enough to reach the entire room or clear enough for the microphone during online presentations.

3. Eye Contact and Facial Expressions

Connecting with your audience begins with how you look at them:

  • Direct Eye Contact: Make eye contact for a few seconds with individuals in different parts of the room to foster a sense of connection.

  • Facial Animation: Smile, raise your eyebrows, or show a look of concern when appropriate to reflect your content’s emotional tone.

  • Camera Connection (for Online Presentations): Look directly at the camera when speaking to simulate eye contact with virtual participants.

4. Listening Skills and Reading the Room

Interaction with the audience can be your strongest tool:

  • Read Cues: Watch for subtle signs of engagement, such as nods, smiles, or puzzled expressions, and adjust your pacing or content to maintain interest.

  • Interactive Elements: Ask questions or include brief audience polls to keep people involved and learn to listen to their feedback..

  • Adaptability: Be prepared to modify your approach if you sense your audience is disengaging. Using the same techniques for different audiences will come across as canned and not genuine. .

5. Implementing Humor and Drama

Adding humor or dramatic storytelling can make your presentation unforgettable:

  • Humor: Use light, situational humor that is appropriate for your audience. It can ease tension and make you more relatable.

  • Dramatic Pauses and Stories: Engage your audience with powerful stories, adding pauses or voice drops to emphasize climactic moments. Telling true, personal stories will also help you earn the trust of your audience as they come to identify with your experience.

In-Person vs. Online Presentations: What’s Different?

  • Gestures: In-person, larger gestures are more effective, while online, small and well-framed hand movements are ideal.

  • Eye Contact: In-person allows scanning the room; online, focus on the camera for a connected feel.

  • Energy Level: You may need to amplify your energy for virtual presentations to counteract the screen’s barrier.

Building Your Confidence:

Practicing these techniques will not only make your speech more effective but will also boost your self-confidence over time. Remember, public speaking is really a life skill, and with time and consistency, anyone can learn to command the room. I used to tell my students often that they don't really need a teacher. Everything they want to learn about anything in the world is available on the internet. While it's really great to have a coach, not everyone has the funds to go that route. One of the most accessible ways to learn and practice presentation skills is to just search YouTube for tutorial videos. Then, go out into the world and practice, practice, practice!!!!


Are you struggling with public speaking? What is your biggest hurdle to overcome?

Do you have a favorite speaker that you look to for inspiration and ideas? Post your comments below and let's share!

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