Speak Slowly and Clearly

• When speaking to your audience, avoid running through the speech or presentation material too rapidly. Instead, speak slowly so that the audience has time to comprehend your words. Be sure to enunciate so that your speech is crisp and clear. Remember that nothing is more frustrating to an audience than having to sit through a speech or presentation that is incomprehensible. Taking the time to speak slowly and clearly can mean the difference between a positive or negative reaction to your speech.
  
  

Avoid Distracting Mannerisms

• Novice public speakers are often unaware of certain mannerisms that can be distracting to the audience. Behaviors such as shuffling papers, constantly clearing your throat, or using the words "um" or "like" too frequently can shift the audience's focus away from your words. Be conscious of mannerisms or tics you may be prone to when you are nervous or anxious. One way to do this is to have someone listen to you when you practice your speech. This person can then provide feedback as to what you might subconsciously do that is distracting. Alternatively, you can record yourself speaking and listen to the playback. Once you determine whether or not you have any mannerisms or tics you need to manage, you can practice controlling them.
  
  

Engage the Audience

• Good public speakers make eye contact with their audience and engage them with the subject matter. Simply reading your speech from a paper or looking down at the floor is dreary and uninspiring. Speaking without modulating your voice can also bore your listeners. Look at your audience and connect with them. When appropriate, use vocal inflections and pauses at certain points in your speech for emphasis. By utilizing these simple techniques, you will keep your audience interested in your subject matter.