h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

What can i do to in order for to speak to a crowd of people without looking or sounding like a fool or being afarid?

Hi there,

Do you have to give a speech to people at short notice?

If so there are a few things that might help. The single most important thing is to be thoroughly familiar with the subject matter you want to speak about. If you really know a lot about a subject, audiences tend to be very forgiving of speakers, even if they are very nervous and make lots of mistakes.

In terms of preparation - don't try to flood the audience with everything. Keep it to a small number of points, 3 or 4 is enough. The conclusion of the speech is just a summary, but the opening should be arresting in some way. Give them a reason to listen to you.

In terms of speech delivery, you *will* feel nervous. It's just basic human nature. So try to relax any way you can. Go on a long walk, or listen to some music, whatever helps you to relax a bit. When speaking, seek the friendly faces in the audience and speak to them.

That's a real brief description - essentially public speaking is something of a skill. Most communicators have had a lot of practice! Toastmasters helps because it gives you a chance to practice in a very safe environment.

Hope that helps!

Woodpigeon