Deb's sparks!

​Recently, I delivered a short eduational speech at a Toastmaster's dinner meeting.  Dinner meetings can be a challenge as you are competing with conversation, food and drink in addition to the restaurant noise!  I am happy to say the speech was a success!

Here are the tips I shared for your next public speaking adventure:
Record Yourself.  Get familiar with the sound of your voice and how you look when you speak!  Take out your smart phone and record your elevator pitch or your presentation materials for your next meeting.  Use the record a note function or even better record a video!  It can be eye-opening!   I prepare for speeches or presentations in front of a full length mirror, practicing my hand gestures, movement, etc.

Be Prepared.  We all like to think we can simply speak off the cuff but what happened the last time you did that?  How did it go?  If you are heading to a networking event, prepare your 2 or 3 sentence pitch.  Memorize it and you will be prepared to meet and greet with confidence.

Breathe.  Before you start speaking, take a deep breath.  It will calm you down and power your voice to reach your audience.

Pause.  This is a simple, powerful tip and yet it can be one of the most challenging.  Simply pause at strategic points in your presentation.  It doesn't have to be a long pause, just long enough for your audience or co-worker or partner to lean in and want to hear more!

Power Pose.  If you are familiar with Amy Cuddy's book Presence and her TED Talk, you know about the Power Pose!  Before you enter the room or stand up to speak, take a minute to take a deep breath and stand in your power.  Whatever that looks like for you.  Hands on your hips, hands in the air, etc.  Stand tall and own it.

These are useful tips if you are speaking with your spouse, running a meeting or delivering an important presentation.

Wishing you peace, love and sparks of discovery!  Deb