Free Speaking Tips

Control your speaking anxiety. Prepare your presentation early: We all procrastinate, which can increase anxiety. But my clients tell me that once they have prepared their presentation effectively, most of their anxiety is eliminated. This will allow your subconscious mind do most of the work for you. For example, as you are driving to work, you may think of an anecdote to support one of your main points. Then file your notes away and refer to them again a week or so before the presentation. At that point make any necessary adjustments.

Before you begin creating graphs, charts and other visual aids, prepare your entire presentation. Avoid the tendency to create slides as your presentation develops. Once your presentation is completed, look carefully to determine where a visual might be needed. To figure this out, ask yourself: Does the visual aid strengthen the point and help the audience better understand the message? Does it help them to "get it"? If the answer is yes, include the aid; otherwise leave it out. Remember that a poor or unnecessary visual can actually work against you.

Leaving a vague or disorganized voice mail message creates a negative impression of you. So before picking up the telephone, ask yourself:

• What is your goal? (What do I hope to accomplish?)

• What is the main point I want to make? If necessary, jot down key words to help you explain that point in an organized way. Avoid giving more information than necessary.

• When you do speak: Be Clear, Be Concise, Be Quiet.

If you are going to present as a team, you should act like a team. To create a well-planned, well-executed group presentation, team members must:

• Work together to determine the overall goal and theme of the presentation.

• Use visuals with a consistent format, tone and appearance.

• Orchestrate the logistics to make things run as smoothly as possible — know who will introduce, transition and close.

• Stick to time limits.