TOP 3 Speaking Tips

HAPPY NEW YEAR to you!

Here's my TOP 3 Speaking Tips for 2010:


(1). Use STORIES to make a point
A vivid story is easier to remember than a bunch of statistics. An emotional story is a more compelling call to action than a recitation of facts.


(2). Keep it YOU-FOCUSED
Involve the audience in your stories! Instead of saying, "I went fishing last week. It was such a peaceful and relaxing getaway", say this: "If you've never been fishing, then you should definitely try it out: It is one of the most relaxing and peaceful acitivities" You-focused stories capture audience attention straight away because they add value to the audience's lives.


(3) AUDIENCE INVOLVEMENT
Involve the audience in your speech by:

(A) Asking them QUESTIONS and getting them to reflect on their lives ("When was the last time that you _____?).

(B) Using ACTIVITIES (E.g. "Okay, now I want you to turn to the person sitting on your left. For the next 30 seconds, I want you to discuss ____"). Or you can use the classic "Raise your hand if you agree" method to get them physically involved and committed to your speech.

(C) Asking them to VISUALIZE
Even if you can't get the audience physically involved in your speech, then you can get them to imagine. E.g. "Imagine that you're walking through a dark, empty street..." Paint a scenario so that each member of the audience imagines themselves physically doing something. Using the audience's imagination makes the speech vivid for them and hence helps them remember there because they "experienced it" rather than just "heard it".



Wishing you a great year ahead.
It's been an amazing year for me, thanks to your support. I've had the pleasure of conducting communication-skills workshops at Toastmaster Clubs, high schools, and Universities. I am taking January 2011 off to travel around Mainland China and learn Puthongua. I will be available again from February 2011 to conduct public speaking workshops and run coaching sessions.

You can contact me on:

akash.speaker@gmail.com if you'd like me to hold a workshop at your club/organization.


Akash


P.S. Hugs and kisses xoxo to the ladies, warm handshakes for the gentlemen