15. How To: Deliver a Speech -- Education and Careers

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In continuation to the main article on How to write a speech, i am presenting now the proper ways on how to deliver it .

<Mastering the tone and body language, is the formula for a successful delivery>

Steps -(08)-

1. Approach the podium confidently and put your notes in a place where you can see them easily.
2. Stand up straight with your feet apart. Look at your audience, pause and begin speaking. If there is no microphone, project from your diaphragm, not your throat.
3. Set the tone in your introduction with appropriate facial expressions, diction and a specific mood.
4. Make eye contact with people in different parts of the audience, including the back row.
5. Pause briefly after you state key points to allow the audience time to absorb the information. Also use natural and relaxed hand gestures and facial expressions to emphasize certain points.
6. Pronounce your words clearly and vary your rate, pitch and volume to keep the delivery lively.
7. Refresh your memory by periodically glancing at your notes, but avoid reading from your notes directly unless you are reading a long quotation.
8. Close your speech by thanking the audience and then confidently, leave the stage.

>Tips<

Success comes with practice . Watch yourself for distracting habits, such as saying 'er' and 'um' too often, or making nervous gestures.

During your speech, if you stumble on a word, it's a sign you should slow down.

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