May 2004

by Edward J. Barks

This month we get into rapid response mode with some commonly asked questions about speaking in public, complete with quick hitting, to-the-point answers.

Q: What is the best method for improving my public speaking abilities?

A: Nothing beats practice, practice, practice! Speak every opportunity you get. Also, pay attention to other speakers you admire. Your goal is not to copy them, but to learn from them. By all means, maintain your own personal style.

Q: How can inexperienced speaker get the necessary practice?

A: Offer your speaking services to any groups to which you belong, such as service clubs, non-profit organizations, and professional societies. They are often in need of speakers. Another option is a local Toastmasters club; you will get plenty of practice time there, but note that the quality of advice you get can vary widely.

Q: What do you look for when you attend a presentation?

A: I keep an eye on the speaker's ability to forge a bond with the audience. While a magnetic message is mandatory, the pros realize they also must make effective use of their Video tools - the way they look - and Audio tools - the way they sound.

Q: What's wrong with winging it?

A: Nothing - if you don't mind making a total fool of yourself. Taking the stage unprepared demonstrates a lack of respect for one's audience and a gross display of amateurism on the part of a speaker.

Q: What do you do if you walk into the room where you are scheduled to speak and things are not set up as you might like?

A: My first line of defense is to be very clear in advance with my instructions about room set up. Second, I arrive at least an hour early to troubleshoot anything that is amiss. But things do fall through the cracks on occasion. When that happens, I work closely with the facilities staff to fix what needs fixing, dealing with the most important or noticeable items first.

Q: Name three things speakers need to heed when using presentation software.

A: There is a lot to pay attention to in this regard. Here are three must-do items to get you started: 1) Keep your slides simple and elegant - no tiny fonts or distracting animations, for example; 2) conduct a tech run through before show time; 3) talk to your audience, not to your slides.

Q: What happens if your projector or laptop fails when using slides?

A: Time for Plan B. You must be prepared to continue your speech if a technical snafu arises. Be a pro and have a backup plan. Don't leave your audience hanging.

Q: Do I have to field questions from the audience?

A: Of course not. In most cases, however, Q&A gives you an added means of forging a tighter bond with the group. Just let them know in advance whether you prefer to hold questions until the end or if you will field them throughout.

Q: Is it always necessary to use a lectern, particularly when speaking before large groups?

A: There is no single best answer. It depends on factors like your personal preference, the size of the room, and whether you plan to walk around during your talk.

Q: Are there any particular signals you watch for in your audiences?

A: Smiles, nods, and note taking signal that you are making a connection. Rustling newspapers, idle chatter, and folded arms tell you that you have some work to do.

Q: Why does it make sense to speak in public?

A: Accomplished presenters get that promotion, win election to the board of their professional associations, and secure bigger donations for their charities. The public views skilled speakers as leaders.

I invite you to e-mail your public speaking questions to me. Perhaps your inquiry will show up in a future Personal Trainer column.