Public Speaking Kroesch, 2017
Introduction Fear of Public Speaking is one of the most common fears reported by teens and adults. A study done by Chapman University in 2014 showed that ¼ of surveyed Americans said public speaking caused more anxiety than insects or heights. Glossophobia (the technical term for being afraid of public speaking) is incredibly common despite how much we use speech in our daily lives.
Types of Speech Personal These are daily communications, often informal. Asking/answering simple questions, talking with friends, giving basic instructions, all fall under this category. This category usually causes the lowest stress.
Types of Speech Professional Many careers involve regular public speaking as part of their requirements However, it is reported that as many as 70% of all jobs in the U.S. have some form of public speaking (Aras, 2012) Recruiters look for applicants with strong public speaking skills during the job-seeking process. This category also includes speeches done for classes (school counts as YOUR profession)
Types of Speech Special Occasion These speeches are done for specific events and usually follow expectations. Examples include: Wedding Toasts, Eulogies, Graduations, Sermons, Debates Your audience will have a basic understanding of what the contents of your speech should be. Doing research into this is critical to achieving results in these speeches.
Non-verbal Communication Your body language conveys 70% or more of your effective communication Good body language means: Standing up straight Using hands effectively Showing confidence while speaking Making regular eye contact with your audience This does NOT mean: Hiding behind the podium Staring at your notes
Noise Physical interruptions that prevent your audience from hearing your words is known as NOISE There are other types of noise (physiological, cultural, psychological), but physical is the most common type. Music, other talkers, audience shuffling, people entering/leaving, all create noise that disrupts your message.
Audience Judging your audience is the same as it is in writing Ask yourself: How large is my audience (How loud do I need to be for them to hear me?) Why are they gathered (Are they part of a class? A demonstration? A wedding?) Do they have any preformed BIAS? What are their time expectations?
Important Parts of an EFFECTIVE Speech Interesting Topic This is affected by your purpose and audience An engaging introduction This NEEDS to hook your audience and give them a reason to listen to you Clear, understandable organization Without this, your audience will spend more time wondering how to connect your information than what you are saying
Important Parts of an EFFECTIVE Speech Strong, specific language Word Choice is critical to building your audience’s confidence in you and meaning behind your message Visual Aids that enhance, not take away from your message Pictures and graphs can be distracting, if used incorrectly Credible Evidence The same rules for good research sources apply to speeches A Conclusion that provides Closure End with something for the audience to act on or think about (Clincher)
Becoming a Powerful Speaker Study strong speakers Good teachers, presenters, TED Talks. Learn what you like about these speakers and use it! Understand Yourself Know the signs of your own nervousness. Working through your own fears is easy if you can control your own feelings Prepare Knowing your information, studying, practicing, and having good notes is the best way to avoid mistakes and feel confident
Your Prompt What is it to be successful as an adult? In what ways do you plan on working to achieve this for yourself? Give specific objectives with research to meet your goals.