A lot of people get nervous about public speaking—only about 10% of folks in the U.S. actually enjoy it. But getting better at speaking in public can really boost your career, opening up opportunities that others might shy away from.
Check out these tips and techniques to help you get more comfortable speaking in front of an audience and to build your confidence.
The Importance of Strong Public Speaking Skills
Strong public speaking skills can really set you apart in college and in your career. They help boost your confidence and prepare you for leadership roles.
Public speaking is a powerful way to make your points, show off your knowledge, and influence others. It also helps you stay organized and improves your writing and communication skills.
Many people who seem totally at ease speaking in front of crowds started out with a big fear of it. By facing that fear, practicing, and building your confidence, you can gain some major advantages in life.
How to Become a Better Public Speaker
If you want to get better at public speaking, try using some of these tips in your daily life. They’ll help you become more comfortable and confident when giving presentations.
Learn from Great Speakers
One of the best ways to improve is by watching skilled public speakers. Check out their videos on YouTube or TED Talks. Notice how they use open body language, make eye contact, and avoid fidgeting. They also pace themselves well, using pauses and humor to keep the audience engaged.
Relax Your Body Language
Nerves can make you tense, which shows in your body language. Aim for good posture, eye contact, and natural movements. Avoid putting your hands in your pockets or crossing your arms. Instead, keep your arms at your sides and use them purposefully. Try to make eye contact with different people in the audience as you build confidence.
Practice Your Voice and Breath Control
Speaking in public can make you rush your words. To avoid this, keep a steady pace. Practice breathing deeply from your stomach to help calm your nerves and maintain control.
Prepare Your Talking Points
Before you speak, list the key messages you want to convey. Start with 3-5 main points and outline supporting details. Arrange these points in the order you’ll present them to stay organized and cover everything important.
Know Your Audience
Tailor your speech to your audience. Think about what interests them and what they need to know. The type of event will also influence your approach—whether it’s a formal event or a classroom setting.
Use Visual Aids
Visual aids like PowerPoint slides can help make your points clearer and keep your audience engaged. Keep slides simple with graphs and images rather than lots of text. If you do use text, keep it brief with a few bullet points.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Rehearse your speech several times to get comfortable with it. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll become.
Record Yourself
Record your practice sessions to review your performance. Pay attention to your body language, voice, and pacing. This can help you spot areas for improvement.
Get Feedback from a Friend
Ask a trusted friend to watch your presentation and give honest feedback. Let them know what specific areas you’re working on, like pacing or delivery.
Consider a Public Speaking Class
Taking a class can quickly improve your skills and boost your confidence. You’ll learn from experts and get support from peers. If you’re focusing on virtual presentations, look for online courses. For live presentations, an in-person class might be better. Joining student clubs or groups that focus on public speaking can also provide valuable practice.
Improving your public speaking skills early on can set you up for success in college and give you a head start in your career.
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