Win the Crowd – 3 Public Speaking Tips

Throughout my academic and professional career, I’ve had the opportunity to do a lot of public speaking. From my valedictorian speech in high school to lunch and learn sessions, I’ve had a chance to chat it up in front of a crowd. I find that I’m at my best when I’m being myself, mixing good information with wit and charm, inviting my audience to join me in a conversation where we laugh a little and learn a lot. But, I’ve been at my worst when I’ve gone too far and left my audience behind to fend for themselves as I feast on my own ego.

This happens to all of us at some point. We so desperately want to prove that we’re smart and deserve to be where we are that we forget that part of being smart is knowing how to read people, knowing when to shift gears and re-package the message. Your goal is to win the crowd over and if you’re talking over them or beneath them, you’ve lost them and perhaps any chance at redemption. So, as you stand to give your next speech, square your shoulders, lift your chin and smile, keeping these three things in mind:

1. Know Your Audience. Know who you’re talking to. Have a good sense of what they’re expecting to hear and how they’re expecting to hear it. Some audiences will appreciate playful banter woven into a strong message, but some won’t. Do your homework and prepare. Find a hook and use it as an opener to get them talking. Show them that you’ve taken the time to get to know what’s important to them.
2. Don’t Save the Best for Last. In this case, make your strongest points first. As time moves on, attention spans wind down and you don’t want your audience to miss what you’ve come to tell them. They’re assuming that you’re the expert so go ahead and prove it.
3. Be flexible. Yes, you should know your presentation, but be prepared if you get derailed. Keep an eye on your audience and read their reactions. If you see their eyes glazing over or staring off into space, it’s time to change course. On the other hand, if all is going well and you find yourself short on time, knowing which parts you can skip will help you close the presentation out with the satisfaction of knowing that you still hit all your key points.

Let’s face it, talking in front of people can be tough. No matter how many times you’ve done it, you still have to mentally prepare for being loved or hated. But, if you dread doing it, that’ll show and you’re toast. Enjoy yourself and be excited about what you have to share. You’re enthusiasm will be infectious and hopefully spread to your audience.