10 secrets to shine when speaking in public

I still remember every moment of my first presentation at work in 2003! I was so anxious and worried; I truly wanted to shine and impress my audience.

Why do certain speeches and presentations last forever in our memories while others fade into oblivion by the time they are finished? Is it the topic, the speaker or the content? Do you know how to use every resource at your disposal to elevate your speeches and presentations from mundane to captivating? Do you know how to build exceptional introductions and climactic closings?

Below are 10 practical secrets to shine when speaking in public:

Secret 1 – Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance

This is a golden rule: if you fail to prepare, then prepare to fail! Successful presenters and public speakers prepare well everything around the following 5 Ws and H:

• Who = who is attending your presentation or speech? Know your audience well.
• When = make sure the event is marked on your calendar and prepare needed stuff few weeks and days before the event’s day.
• Where = know the location well including all logistical preparations.
• What = prepare the best words and messages for the big day. Take your notes with you.
• Why = validate the reasons of this presentation/event and tailor accordingly.
• How = decide on the best style and rehearse well. Always speak from the heart. It will help you avoid being monotone.

Secret 2 – Make an amazing entrance

First impressions count! Unleash the best version of you especially at the beginning. Below are my favorite ways to start any presentation or speech:

• Music
• Relevant stories
• Famous quote
• Surprising statistics
• Creative images
• Anecdotes
• Common memories
• Imagination
• Short videos
• Powerful open-ended questions
• Collecting votes or opinions around a specific subject through www.kahoot.com

Combining more than one of the above is very impactful if you have time.

Secret 3 – Put yourself in your audience shoes

It is about them not you. Make sure everything is convenient and attractive to your audience.

Secret 4 – KISS it

When developing and delivering your messages, make sure you Keep It Simple & Short.

One of the main objectives of any presentation or speech is to have a common understanding. Therefore, simple and short messages are crucial.

Secret 5 – Examples and Stories are your best friends

These are very powerful tools to succeed in any presentation or speed. They help you to engage your audience and clarify your content.

Secret 6 – Questions during and at the end

Engage your audience by asking questions during the presentation/speech and always allocate enough time in the end. Most presenters and speakers rush the end.

Secret 7 - Finish with an Incredible Exit

The last impression is as important as the first impression. It is your last chance to impact your audience. The last slide of all my presentations is titled: key takeaways. Like the introduction, you can end with one or more of the following:

• A relevant story
• A famous quote
• A creative image or
• A short video

Secret 8 - Feedback is the breakfast of champions

Keep learning and improving by seeking feedback from:

• People from your audience at the end of the presentation/speech or immediately afterward
• Expert presenters and speakers by inviting them to observe you in action from time to time

Please don’t forget the self-evaluation after each event!

Secret 9 – Apply the 4*4 rule when designing your slides

Each slide should have a maximum of 4 bullet points and each point should have a maximum of 4 words. Most of my slides have a high-resolution picture and a title. Unfortunately, many presenters including senior managers of big organizations bombard their audience with heavy slides. It is too boring.

Secret 10 - Maintain eye contact with everyone in the audience

We all tend to look at some people more than others in our audience. Moreover, we tend to look less at the people on our extreme right of left.