Public Speaking For Normal People: A Reaction
Posted on February 8, 2012 by Baxter Dickson
The other day, while I was scanning the internet for communication tips, I stumbled across an intriguing article by Jason Freedman entitled,“Public Speaking For Normal People.”
Because I had recently written an article aimed at performers, I eagerly read Friedman’s article, looking for new and interesting tips. My reactions were mixed. Some of the advice mirrored the teachings from VoicePro®’s Speak! Present! Influence!®workshop. On the other hand, others felt like a public speaking survival guide rather than ways to connect with the audience.
Of course, we compliment Jason Freedman and anyone else assisting inexperienced speakers, and we’re reluctant to discount potentially helpful advice. So, instead of highlighting what we disagree with, here’s a tip-by-tip response to the article.
Tip #1: Dribble Twice, Spin Once
I loved this tip: Develop a relaxing physical routine before you speak. At VoicePro®, relaxation before and during any pressure situation is a core value, and we offer numerous activities and exercises to help rid the body of nervous energy. In addition, warm-up routines prevent your brain from going into overdrive and over thinking your presentation.
However, I will caution readers against striking a “confidence pose.” Forced poses are constrictive and block the release of energy. Instead, stand tall, breathe deeply, and shake out tension in the same way athletes do before competing.
Tip #2: Death To PowerPoint
The language is extreme but the point is well taken. Many speakers use PowerPoint as a crutch, with their eyes glued to the screen instead of speaking directly to the audience. If you’re accustomed to using PowerPoint, ask yourself the following questions: Does my presentation truly need PowerPoint? And if so, how can I clean them up so everything is more clear? Then analyze your slides, making sure they can be read with a quick glance and easy to read from a distance.
Taking these precautions ensures your slides won’t become a distraction.
Tip #3: Speak To Two People
In the author’s example, he details his experience speaking in front of 150 people. As he spoke he found that focusing on two specific individuals kept him relaxed. This may have been helpful to the speaker but it fails to take the audience into account. The audience Freedman spoke to likely wondered what was so special about those two people.
At VoicePro®, we emphasize the importance of connecting with your entire audience. So, move your eyes around, connecting with people throughout the audience, really seeing them and watching for their reactions. This may be outside your comfort zone, but the effect is powerful.
Tip #4: Embrace Your Ums
In the article, Freedman states filler words like “um” are subconscious and getting rid of them is nearly impossible. He also argues that unless you’re a politician, no one will care (I’m paraphrasing of course). I had two problems with this tip. First, filler words aren’t noticeable to a speaker but they’re maddening to an audience (especially after five minutes). Second, it’s very possible to get rid of filler words. Once I identified my filler words and made a concentrated effort to eliminate them, my speaking improved dramatically. It is an achievable goal.
Tip #5: Don’t Memorize
No arguments here. Memorized speeches feel disingenuous and staged. And if you lose your place, it can be impossible to get back on track. We recommend creating an outline for your main ideas. Your expertise will fill in the blanks.
Tip #6: Practice With Live Ammunition
We’ll never argue against practicing your presentation, especially in front of a crowd. However, Freedman’s idea of “live ammunition” includes being put on the spot and performing your speech at social gatherings, without preparation.
That’s panic inducing.
As an alternative, practice in front of selected co-workers or family members. You’re simulating a real situation, and the positive environment will give you confidence.
Public speaking can be a daunting task for the “normal” person, and Freedman’s post offers numerous tips to make a speaker feel comfortable. Still, we should never lose sight of a speaker’s true focus—the audience.
What tips do you find most effective? Post your comments here or message us on Twitter!
Image provided by TOM81115
