by Olivia Bredbenner

Created on: November 13, 2008

Knowing your subject and your audience even better , are some of the key factors in public speaking. The transient jitters as you arrive at a podium soon pass as you begin to speak about a subject that is of great interest to you or one close to your heart. Public speaking becomes more comfortable and natural with time and experience. Practice makes perfect . With an audience or alone.

In most professional settings, it is appropriate to be dressed professionally in a suit. However, your own personal style is part of you. The audience wants to hear what you have to say. Looking good just adds to your professionalism and gives you added confidence.

Make a request ahead of time for a bottle or glass of water close by. Take the time to check out the microphone. See that it is adjusted to your comfort. In addition, any audiovisual equipment should be checked to see that it is functioning properly and that any slides that are needed, are placed in proper sequence, and used correctly as you speak. You are the best person to have confirmed that your Power Point presentations are in place. One of the greatest distractions for a speaker is a sloppy presentation.

Remember most in the audience are sitting there because they are interested in learning more, or are required to attend your presentation. Unless of course your reputation as a speaker, has become so well received, that you have your own following. If this is the case, you probably will be well compensated for your time.

Most likely if you are chosen to speak by an association, or an organization, your background includes education related to the subject at hand. Moreover, you have a reputation for being prepared and have the ability to speak well. Having notes that you have become familiar with, will turn out to be like a best friend. Something you can refer to when needed. If you go off track, just refocus and continue. Your audience does not know what you were going to say only what is said. So be creative and speak as you want to. Just be sure that you cover all the important points.

Most public speaking begins with an introduction of the speaker, their background and the subject to be covered. A good speaker thanks everyone related to the program and to those that had invited him or her to speak. As a speaker you should be a gracious guest, but remember with confidence that they have invited you.

Tell your audience that you will have time for questions at the end of your talk. Be sure to reference any of your

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