Dear Terry,
When I hear a polished speaker, they always have a smooth, easy-going tone with some great lines. When I write my speech, I spend a lot of time on the phrasing and getting the wording just right. Then when I give the speech, I end up having to basically read, which detracts from my presentation. I want to be well-prepared, but memorizing or reading just doesn't seem to be the answer. Any tips about how to prepare a speech and speaking notes that would help me to attain my goal of the smooth, conversational tone that I am striving for?
- Tongue-Tied Toastmaster
Dear Tongue-Tied,
It is an excellent hallmark of your character and fabric that you care enough about your audience and yourself to prepare for your speeches. Preparing your talks helps one to get their thoughts organized, and provides the opportunity to ensure that the purpose of the speech will deliver value.
When you prepare your speech, consider writing like you talk... speak writing. You are not preparing your speech to be graded by a school professor.
This is where the tire hits the road. Cut yourself some slack. Preparing a speech is like developing guardrails about what you will present. Feel free to bob and weave when you deliver your talk. It doesn't need to be given precisely as you have written out the speech.
If you are going to read the speech, we call this a read-along. Remarkably, you recognize reading your talk is distracting. When you know and trust yourself, the words will flow without notes.
Once you have meticulously prepared your speech, consider calling a couple of buddies a few days in advance of your speech date and have a conversation with each of them about the content of your upcoming speech. Share with your buddies what you will talk about, and these conversations will reinforce what you have prepared without notes. This will allow you to practice your speech without putting pressure on yourself. This is speech practice without saying as much.
When you give your speech, trust that the words will come in a conversational tone. You are on your way to becoming a polished speaker.
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