How Anyone Can Become a Better Public Speaker
By Stefanie M. Marrone for The Social Media Butterfly
Public speaking is an important skill that everyone needs to master and it’s something you can learn – trust me, as I’ve been there too. I wasn’t always a confident public speaker—in fact, I used to be filled with anxiety every time I had to speak publicly. The turning point came when I stopped stressing about the act of speaking itself and instead focused on connecting with my audience. I began telling more stories and smiling, which made my presentations more engaging. Over time, I picked up various tips and tricks that helped me improve. Once I understood that the audience genuinely wants to see you succeed, my nerves started to calm, and I became much more at ease.
Public speaking is a critical skill for lawyers and law firm business professionals. Whether you’re presenting in court, addressing colleagues or speaking at industry events, the ability to communicate effectively is essential. Here are some tips to help you become a strong public speaker.
Before You Start Presenting
- Introduce Yourself: The first slide after the agenda should be an introduction. Tell stories, connect with people and make a personal connection. Share your background, expertise and why you are passionate about the topic. This helps to establish credibility and build rapport with your audience. Remember to tell the audience to connect with you on LinkedIn! Put your LinkedIn QR code on this slide to facilitate networking.
- Agenda Slide: Include an agenda slide to give your audience an overview of what to expect. This helps them follow along and stay engaged throughout your presentation.
- Housekeeping Items: Address any housekeeping items such how and when to ask questions. This helps to set the stage for a smooth presentation.
- Online Presentations: If you are presenting online, put your contact information in the chat and display your LinkedIn QR code on the screen so people can easily connect with you.
Public Speaking Best Practices
- Know Your Audience: Understand the specific interests and knowledge level of your audience, whether they are clients, colleagues or industry peers. Tailor your message to their needs and concerns. By doing so, you ensure that your content is relevant and engaging which increases the likelihood of your message being well-received.
- Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your presentation multiple times. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself or present to a trusted colleague to get constructive feedback. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with your material which will help reduce anxiety and improve your delivery.
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