When speaking in public, it can be hard to remember everything that you want to say or to say it in an way that is both powerful and easy for the audience to understand. Writing, and practicing, a speech is a good way to make sure that your audience gets all the information in a logical, easy to follow format. Below are some suggestions to think about when writing a speech, or preparing for your Youth Venture Selection Panel.
Structuring a Speech
When writing and delivering a speech, it is often helpful to think of the three separate parts of the speech—the beginning, the middle, and the end—and how to keep the audience engaged during each part.
Beginning
- The first 30 seconds are the most crucial to engaging the audience’s interest.
- Grab the audience’s attention by starting out with a story, quote, or appropriate joke.
Middle
- Your main points should be organized in a logical manner to make it easy for audience members to follow along.
- Make your speech conversational by using words and phrases that you’re comfortable with.
End
- Summarize the main points of your speech, placing emphasis on ideas you want the audience to take away with them.
- Choose your final words carefully. Leave audience members with a final thought that encourages them to think further about your topic.
Transitions
Transitions are cues to your audience that you’re moving from one thought or point to another. To help your speech flow well, consider using some of the following transition words:
- Furthermore
- In addition
- Therefore
- For example
- In other words
- On the other hand
- Besides
- Even more
- Despite
- Even though
- Regardless
- Either way
- Instead
- Because
- As a result
- For this reason
- With this is mind
- In that case
Quick Tips for Giving a Great Speech
- Be animated, but not too animated. Moving around, using hand gestures, smiling, and drinking water are all ways to show you’re excited and engaged in your speech. Rocking back and forth, twirling your hair or fidgeting show the audience you’re nervous. Be aware of what your body language is saying.
- Make eye contact with the audience.
- Get involved with and feel passionate about your speech. If you’re interested, your audience will be too!
- Prepare note cards with an outline of your speech to use in case you get off track.
Nervousness
It’s normal to be nervous. Luckily, there are several ways to overcome it!
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Practice:
Practicing is the best way to familiarize yourself with your speech and be comfortable while delivering it.
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Breathe:
Even if you are nervous, don’t announce it. Just take a deep breath or two and compose yourself. A few deep breaths can go a long way to soothe nervousness.
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Self-talk:
Remind yourself that you are a good speaker and that by giving your speech you will bring more awareness to your organization or cause.
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Encouragement:
Realize that people want you to succeed. Audiences want you to be interesting, informative, and entertaining. They don’t want you to fail.
More YV Tip Sheets:
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| Anexo | Tamanho |
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| Public Speaking_page2.pdf | 465.88 KB |
| Public Speaking_page1.pdf | 281.97 KB |