So you are a writer. Be it Creative, Journalism, Business, Technical, Entertainment, Ministry, etc. How would you like to present your writing in front of a live audience? That is what a Public Speaker does. They speak to people for free in a public setting. A Professional Speaker does the same but often charge a fee.

The following information is what you need to know to become a good public speaker:

First and foremost, if you have 40 or 25 minutes to speak, stay within the time allotted. Know the audience that you will be talking to, consider their knowledge and their needs.

Second you should write down any ideas for a topic that comes to mind. Once you have decided on a topic you should investigate the topic. The more you research your topic the more information you will know about the topic. When you are satisfied with what you know, create a main idea for your speech and develop main points to support your idea. Give your audience facts that will help them understand your main points. Use anecdotes and examples to help you make your main points interesting. Always follow up general statements with specifics. Be sure to use relevant and accurate information.

When you have completed the above you are now ready to write your speech. Make an outline of you speech to help you stay organize and pace yourself as you talk. Develop smooth transitions when moving from one part of your speech to the next. Always answer the, who, what, when, where, why and how questions when giving your speech. Never use the word "I", but use the word "You". Talk about your audience not about yourself and use gestures and varying tones while you are talking.

The beginning of your speech should get the audience attention. Once you have their attention, hold it. If you don't get the audience attention in the beginning you will not get your message across. When closing your speech you must sum up all of your main points and repeat the main idea. Conclude your speech with an appeal for action. Doing this will help your audience remember you. Never say "Thank you" when you finish your speech, wait a couple of seconds then be seated.

Practicing and rehearsing your speech would help you to give a perfect speech. Rehearse with someone who can critique your performance. Try using a mirror when no one is available. Move around during your speech to keep the audience attention. Maintain eye contact with your audience. Dress appropriate for the occasion; be familiar with your speaking environment. Make sure that the equipment you need is working.

* Toastmasters International is a Non-Profit speaking organization. They specialize in helping you to become a Public Speaker. A Toastmasters meeting is a learn-by-doing workshop. They also have great educational programs.

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