Effective public speaking is an essential tool in public relations and is one of the most effective ways to communicate key messages with your target audience and the media. It’s important to prepare yourself for any speaking opportunity that arises, from conferences and events to media interviews.
The public relations experts at Adoni Media know first-hand the importance of public speaking as a way to communicate your message to your audience as well as build your profile in the industry. Here are five tips on how to improve your skills.
- Know your audience
Before you begin to create your speech, you need to understand who your audience is and how to effectively engage them. If you are speaking to a group of people outside of your industry, you’ll need to provide more information and context, and avoid using jargon they won’t understand. Similarly, if you are speaking to people in your industry, you can leave out information they already know. You also need to think about the purpose of your speech and keep this in the forefront of your mind throughout your address.
- Know your key messages
Take time to perfect your key messages to ensure you’re getting a message across that puts your brand in a positive light.
- Practice makes perfect
Make sure you are well-researched and knowledgeable about the topic you are discussing as this will make you more confident when you speak. Make sure you prepare by practising. Recording your speech on video or performing in front of someone else is a great way to build confidence and gain constructive feedback.
- Say to yes to speaking opportunities
Say yes to as many speaking opportunities as you can to build your confidence. Use all speaking opportunities, big or small, to practise delivering key messages effectively to your audience and learn how to control your nerves.
- Use body language, humour and personal stories
It’s important to ensure your language and tone of voice are appropriate for your speech and the audience you are speaking to. Make sure you stand tall, maintain eye contact and use gestures to enhance your messages. Humour and personal stories are great ways to connect with your audience and build a trustworthy relationship with them. They’re also sure to make the speech more entertaining and engaging.