“When you forget yourself and your fear, when you get beyond self-consciousness because your mind is thinking about what you are trying to communicate, you become a better communicator” Peggy Noonan.
On Speaking Well
I have just read “On Speaking Well
- Be not afraid. Relax, it’s only a speech.
- Think logically about the case you are making, and make it. Try to imagine your speech being reduced to a headline.
- Your style shouldn’t be taller than you are. Don’t imitate. Say it the way you would say it to a friend.
- The most moving thing in a speech is always the logic. Never try to make them cry, try to help them think.
- Use humour when you can. No one ever left a speech saying “I hated the way she made me laugh out loud”.
- Give your speech before you give it. Read a draft or two aloud to friends or family. The fifth time you give your speech will be better than the first time.
- Use your own gestures, respect your own quirks. Be you. (Check out my previous blog post on 3 keys to powerful delivery)