RomanceEverAfter

The Writing Craft:
Business Issues for Writers

The Art of Public Speaking:
Typical Trouble Spots for Novice Speakers
(Continued pg. 3)

Category III: The Instrument – Your Voice

Your voice is one of your most powerful tools when speaking. The frustrating trouble spot that many novice speakers encounter is their voice doesn’t want to cooperate. Through no real fault of you own, fear and nerves can interfere with your ability to use your instrument effectively.

What initial tactics can the novice speaker employ to help overcome these trouble spots? We recommend you try these two methods.

Speak slowly and steady

The case of nervousness or fear may cause you to speak at a faster rate. This may occur simply from anxiety or your desire to escape the podium as soon as possible.

Make a conscious effort to speak at a constant, unhurried rate. In this way, you will find it easier to keep track of your thoughts and remain calmer. At the least, your audience will perceive you are in control and relaxed. Speaking at a faster rate will only serve to stimulate your nervous energy. At this point of your speaking experience, you already have enough nervous energy to combat.

Take the periodic pause for breathing

A good breathing technique does improve your voice quality. Good breathing technique also aids in disallowing your nerves to take over your reasoning. In short, if you make places within your speech to pause and breath, this will impact the quality of your instrument – your voice. You may liken these pauses to mini-rest stops along your speech journey.

Place these breathing pauses throughout your speech. Make your opening statement and/or comments, then take a slight pause, visually scan your audience, take a calming breath then proceed with the body of your speech. Within the body of your speech, strategically place pauses for breathing. These periodic pauses can be appropriately placed to hone in on a point or create drama.

Taking a periodic pause to breathe can be a very effective method in keeping your voice in good order and maintaining overall calm.

A Final Recommendation - Speech Evaluation

In order to identify the trouble spots you possess, you will need to be evaluated while giving a speech. If you are a member of a Toastmasters International (www.toastermasters.org) chapter, you can have a seasoned fellow member evaluate you. Another option is to videotape your speech and observe your gestures, voice, and overall appearance. Upon reviewing your speech, you can make a checklist of areas you need to work on.

No matter what level you are at in your speaking abilities, there is always room to improve. The purpose of top notch speaking skills is communicating to your audience and making that special connection so they understand your message.

Every individual has a unique image and presence to share with an audience. The exciting challenge is meeting the expectations and goals you set for yourself as a communicator. With resources, determination, and practice at your disposal, you can overcome the trouble spots of a novice speaker and climb to the next level of self-development for effective speaking.