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10 Tips for Improving Your Public Speaking Skills

Few are immune to the fear of public speaking. Marjorie North offers 10 tips for speakers to calm the nerves and deliverable memorable orations.

Marjorie North

Snakes? Fine. Flying? No problem. Public speaking? Yikes! Just thinking about public speaking — routinely described as one of the greatest (and most common) fears — can make your palms sweat. But there are many ways to tackle this anxiety and learn to deliver a memorable speech.

In part one of this series,  Mastering the Basics of Communication , I shared strategies to improve how you communicate. In part two, How to Communicate More Effectively in the Workplace , I examined how to apply these techniques as you interact with colleagues and supervisors in the workplace. For the third and final part of this series, I’m providing you with public speaking tips that will help reduce your anxiety, dispel myths, and improve your performance.

Here Are My 10 Tips for Public Speaking:

1. nervousness is normal. practice and prepare.

All people feel some physiological reactions like pounding hearts and trembling hands. Do not associate these feelings with the sense that you will perform poorly or make a fool of yourself. Some nerves are good. The adrenaline rush that makes you sweat also makes you more alert and ready to give your best performance.

The best way to overcome anxiety is to prepare, prepare, and prepare some more. Take the time to go over your notes several times. Once you have become comfortable with the material, practice — a lot. Videotape yourself, or get a friend to critique your performance.

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2. Know Your Audience. Your Speech Is About Them, Not You.

Before you begin to craft your message, consider who the message is intended for. Learn as much about your listeners as you can. This will help you determine your choice of words, level of information, organization pattern, and motivational statement.

3. Organize Your Material in the Most Effective Manner to Attain Your Purpose.

Create the framework for your speech. Write down the topic, general purpose, specific purpose, central idea, and main points. Make sure to grab the audience’s attention in the first 30 seconds.

4. Watch for Feedback and Adapt to It.

Keep the focus on the audience. Gauge their reactions, adjust your message, and stay flexible. Delivering a canned speech will guarantee that you lose the attention of or confuse even the most devoted listeners.

5. Let Your Personality Come Through.

Be yourself, don’t become a talking head — in any type of communication. You will establish better credibility if your personality shines through, and your audience will trust what you have to say if they can see you as a real person.

6. Use Humor, Tell Stories, and Use Effective Language.

Inject a funny anecdote in your presentation, and you will certainly grab your audience’s attention. Audiences generally like a personal touch in a speech. A story can provide that.

7. Don’t Read Unless You Have to. Work from an Outline.

Reading from a script or slide fractures the interpersonal connection. By maintaining eye contact with the audience, you keep the focus on yourself and your message. A brief outline can serve to jog your memory and keep you on task.

8. Use Your Voice and Hands Effectively. Omit Nervous Gestures.

Nonverbal communication carries most of the message. Good delivery does not call attention to itself, but instead conveys the speaker’s ideas clearly and without distraction.

9. Grab Attention at the Beginning, and Close with a Dynamic End.

Do you enjoy hearing a speech start with “Today I’m going to talk to you about X”? Most people don’t. Instead, use a startling statistic, an interesting anecdote, or concise quotation. Conclude your speech with a summary and a strong statement that your audience is sure to remember.

10. Use Audiovisual Aids Wisely.

Too many can break the direct connection to the audience, so use them sparingly. They should enhance or clarify your content, or capture and maintain your audience’s attention.

Practice Does Not Make Perfect

Good communication is never perfect, and nobody expects you to be perfect. However, putting in the requisite time to prepare will help you deliver a better speech. You may not be able to shake your nerves entirely, but you can learn to minimize them.

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About the Author

North is a consultant for political candidates, physicians, and lawyers, and runs a private practice specializing in public speaking, and executive communication skills. Previously, she was the clinical director in the department of speech and language pathology and audiology at Northeastern University.

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8 tips to make the best powerpoint presentations.

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Slideshows are an intuitive way to share complex ideas with an audience, although they're dull and frustrating when poorly executed. Here are some tips to make your Microsoft PowerPoint presentations sing while avoiding common pitfalls.

Table of Contents

Start with a goal, less is more, consider your typeface, make bullet points count, limit the use of transitions, skip text where possible, think in color, take a look from the top down, bonus: start with templates.

It all starts with identifying what we're trying to achieve with the presentation. Is it informative, a showcase of data in an easy-to-understand medium? Or is it more of a pitch, something meant to persuade and convince an audience and lead them to a particular outcome?

It's here where the majority of these presentations go wrong with the inability to identify the talking points that best support our goal. Always start with a goal in mind: to entertain, to inform, or to share data in a way that's easy to understand. Use facts, figures, and images to support your conclusion while keeping structure in mind (Where are we now and where are we going?).

I've found that it's helpful to start with the ending. Once I know how to end a presentation, I know how best to get to that point. I start by identifying the takeaway---that one nugget that I want to implant before thanking everyone for their time---and I work in reverse to figure out how best to get there.

Your mileage, of course, may vary. But it's always going to be a good idea to put in the time in the beginning stages so that you aren't reworking large portions of the presentation later. And that starts with a defined goal.

A slideshow isn't supposed to include everything. It's an introduction to a topic, one that we can elaborate on with speech. Anything unnecessary is a distraction. It makes the presentation less visually appealing and less interesting, and it makes you look bad as a presenter.

This goes for text as well as images. There's nothing worse, in fact, than a series of slides where the presenter just reads them as they appear. Your audience is capable of reading, and chances are they'll be done with the slide, and browsing Reddit, long before you finish. Avoid putting the literal text on the screen, and your audience will thank you.

Related: How to Burn Your PowerPoint to DVD

Right off the bat, we're just going to come out and say that Papyrus and Comic Sans should be banned from all PowerPoint presentations, permanently. Beyond that, it's worth considering the typeface you're using and what it's saying about you, the presenter, and the presentation itself.

Consider choosing readability over aesthetics, and avoid fancy fonts that could prove to be more of a distraction than anything else. A good presentation needs two fonts: a serif and sans-serif. Use one for the headlines and one for body text, lists, and the like. Keep it simple. Veranda, Helvetica, Arial, and even Times New Roman are safe choices. Stick with the classics and it's hard to botch this one too badly.

There reaches a point where bullet points become less of a visual aid and more of a visual examination.

Bullet points should support the speaker, not overwhelm his audience. The best slides have little or no text at all, in fact. As a presenter, it's our job to talk through complex issues, but that doesn't mean that we need to highlight every talking point.

Instead, think about how you can break up large lists into three or four bullet points. Carefully consider whether you need to use more bullet points, or if you can combine multiple topics into a single point instead. And if you can't, remember that there's no one limiting the number of slides you can have in a presentation. It's always possible to break a list of 12 points down into three pages of four points each.

Animation, when used correctly, is a good idea. It breaks up slow-moving parts of a presentation and adds action to elements that require it. But it should be used judiciously.

Adding a transition that wipes left to right between every slide or that animates each bullet point in a list, for example, starts to grow taxing on those forced to endure the presentation. Viewers get bored quickly, and animations that are meant to highlight specific elements quickly become taxing.

That's not to say that you can't use animations and transitions, just that you need to pick your spots. Aim for no more than a handful of these transitions for each presentation. And use them in spots where they'll add to the demonstration, not detract from it.

Sometimes images tell a better story than text can. And as a presenter, your goal is to describe points in detail without making users do a lot of reading. In these cases, a well-designed visual, like a chart, might better convey the information you're trying to share.

The right image adds visual appeal and serves to break up longer, text-heavy sections of the presentation---but only if you're using the right images. A single high-quality image can make all the difference between a success and a dud when you're driving a specific point home.

When considering text, don't think solely in terms of bullet points and paragraphs. Tables, for example, are often unnecessary. Ask yourself whether you could present the same data in a bar or line chart instead.

Color is interesting. It evokes certain feelings and adds visual appeal to your presentation as a whole. Studies show that color also improves interest, comprehension, and retention. It should be a careful consideration, not an afterthought.

You don't have to be a graphic designer to use color well in a presentation. What I do is look for palettes I like, and then find ways to use them in the presentation. There are a number of tools for this, like Adobe Color , Coolors , and ColorHunt , just to name a few. After finding a palette you enjoy, consider how it works with the presentation you're about to give. Pastels, for example, evoke feelings of freedom and light, so they probably aren't the best choice when you're presenting quarterly earnings that missed the mark.

It's also worth mentioning that you don't need to use every color in the palette. Often, you can get by with just two or three, though you should really think through how they all work together and how readable they'll be when layered. A simple rule of thumb here is that contrast is your friend. Dark colors work well on light backgrounds, and light colors work best on dark backgrounds.

Spend some time in the Slide Sorter before you finish your presentation. By clicking the four squares at the bottom left of the presentation, you can take a look at multiple slides at once and consider how each works together. Alternatively, you can click "View" on the ribbon and select "Slide Sorter."

Are you presenting too much text at once? Move an image in. Could a series of slides benefit from a chart or summary before you move on to another point?

It's here that we have the opportunity to view the presentation from beyond the single-slide viewpoint and think in terms of how each slide fits, or if it fits at all. From this view, you can rearrange slides, add additional ones, or delete them entirely if you find that they don't advance the presentation.

The difference between a good presentation and a bad one is really all about preparation and execution. Those that respect the process and plan carefully---not only the presentation as a whole, but each slide within it---are the ones who will succeed.

This brings me to my last (half) point: When in doubt, just buy a template and use it. You can find these all over the web, though Creative Market and GraphicRiver are probably the two most popular marketplaces for this kind of thing. Not all of us are blessed with the skills needed to design and deliver an effective presentation. And while a pre-made PowerPoint template isn't going to make you a better presenter, it will ease the anxiety of creating a visually appealing slide deck.

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How To Improve Your Presentation Skills

Presentation skills help you share information clearly with others

The Ultimate Guide to Developing Powerful Presentation Skills

Presentation skills help you share information clearly with others. They’re the tools you use to explain your ideas, whether you’re talking to a small group or a big crowd. These skills include how you structure the presentation and organise your thoughts, the way you speak, and how you act while presenting.

Good presenters know how to make tough ideas easy to understand. They keep their audience interested from start to finish. They also know how to handle tricky questions without getting flustered.

You use these skills in many parts of your job. You might need them to explain a new project to your team, convince your boss to try your idea or teach others how to do something.

The good news is that anyone can get better at presenting. It just takes practice and knowing the right techniques. In this guide, we’ll show you step-by-step how to improve your presentation skills and become a confident speaker .

Key Takeaways

• Practice your presentation many times to feel more confident and less nervous when you speak.
• Start your talk with something interesting to grab people’s attention right away.
• Use simple words and short sentences to make your ideas easy to understand.
• Move your hands and change your voice to keep people interested in what you’re saying.

If you are looking for In-House PowerPoint Presentation Training for a group or teams, please see our

Overcoming Nerves and Gaining Control

Managing presentation anxiety.

According to the British Council , 75% of us experience severe performance anxiety, and 10% of us suffer from a speaking phobia (also known as glossophobia). So, what can you do to manage your presentation anxiety?

First, identify what makes you nervous about presenting. Some people worry about forgetting their content, while others fear being judged. Once you know what scares you, you can work on addressing those specific fears.

Preparing for a presentation thoroughly helps build confidence. Break your presentation into smaller parts. Practice each section until you feel comfortable with it. This approach makes the whole task feel less overwhelming.

Use our simple roadmap for delivering a great presentation

Create a routine to help calm your nerves before presenting . You might try taking slow, deep breaths. Or you could imagine yourself giving a successful presentation. Some people find gentle stretching helpful. Find what works for you and do it before each presentation.

Practice for Confidence

Try to practice in a place similar to where you’ll be presenting. If you’re going to speak in a meeting room, practice in a similar space. For online presentations, use the same computer and software you’ll use on the day. This familiarity will help you feel more at ease when it’s time to present.

Ask friends or coworkers to watch you practice. Get their honest feedback about how you speak, how fast you talk, and how you use gestures. Use their comments to improve. This real-world practice is very valuable for getting better at presenting.

Structuring a Compelling Presentation

Captivate your audience from the start.

The first few minutes of your talk are crucial. You need to grab your audience’s attention quickly. Try starting with a surprising fact that relates to your topic. This will make people curious to hear more. You could also ask a question that makes your audience think. Another good option is to tell a short story that connects to your main point. Stories help people remember your message better.

After your strong start, tell your audience what they’ll learn from your talk. This helps them understand why they should listen. It’s like giving them a map of what’s coming next in your presentation.

Keep Your Message Clear and Focused

Making your message easy to understand helps your audience follow along. Focus on three main points in your talk. This makes it easier for people to remember what you’ve said. Use simple words, like you’re explaining to a friend. Avoid using complicated terms that might confuse people.

Give examples to support your ideas. Real-life stories or situations help explain tricky concepts. When you use slides, keep them simple. Too much text on a slide can be hard to read. Instead, use pictures or graphs that help explain your words. Remember, your slides should add to what you’re saying, not just repeat it.

By keeping things clear and focused, you’ll help your audience understand and remember your message better.

Keeping Your Audience Engaged

Speak with authority and clarity.

Speaking well when presenting is an important skill. Going too fast can confuse your audience. Practice speaking at a steady pace. Pause after important points to let your message sink in. This gives your audience time to think about what you’ve said.

Change how you speak throughout your presentation. Vary your tone, volume, and speed. This keeps your audience interested. For example, speak a bit louder when making a key point. Use a softer voice when sharing something thoughtful. These changes in your voice help highlight important information.

Use Body Language to Connect

Your body language is just as important as your words. Stand tall and move with purpose. Use hand gestures to emphasise key points. But be careful not to move around too much, as this can distract your audience.

Make eye contact with people in different parts of the room. This helps you connect with your audience. It also shows confidence and honesty. If presenting online , look directly into the camera. This creates the feeling of eye contact for your virtual audience.

Involve Your Audience Actively

Ask questions throughout your presentation. This keeps your audience thinking and involved. For example, you might ask, “Has anyone experienced this in their work?” or “What do you think might happen next?”

Use interactive tools to keep people engaged. Here are some ideas:

• Take a quick poll
• Ask for a show of hands
• Do a short group activity

These activities wake up your audience and make your presentation more interactive .

Presenting Effectively in High-Stakes Situations

Handle tough questions with ease.

When someone asks a difficult question, stay calm. It’s okay to take a moment before answering. This short pause gives you time to think and shows you’re considering the question carefully.

If a question takes your presentation off-track, gently guide the conversation back to your main points. You might say, “That’s an interesting point. It relates to what I was saying earlier about…” This technique helps you stay in control of the discussion.

Delivering with Impact in Important Presentations

In high-stakes presentations , like pitching to executives or clients, focus on being clear and brief. Make your points directly. Avoid explaining too much. Your audience likely has limited time, so get to the point quickly.

Tailor your message to what your audience cares about. If presenting to executives, focus on business outcomes. For a team presentation, emphasise how your ideas benefit the group. Understanding your audience helps you deliver a more impactful presentation.

Maximising the Use of Visuals and Technology

Design visuals that support your message.

To create impactful presentation slides , keep your visuals simple and clear. Use little text on slides. Choose images or graphs that support what you’re saying. Your visuals should add to your spoken words, not repeat them.

Practice using your visuals while speaking. This helps you create a smooth flow between your words and what’s on the screen. You don’t want to be fumbling with slides or reading directly from them during your presentation.

Master the Technical Aspects

Get comfortable with the tools you’ll use. Whether you’re presenting with PowerPoint , Google Slides , or online meeting software like Zoom , practice with the technology before your presentation. This reduces the chance of technical problems during your talk.

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Always have a backup plan. Print out your notes or save an offline version of your presentation. This way, you can keep going even if the technology fails. Being prepared for problems shows professionalism and keeps your presentation on track.

Growing Your Skills Through Feedback and Reflection

Seek constructive feedback.

After each presentation, ask trusted colleagues for specific feedback. Don’t just ask if it was good or bad. Instead, ask questions like:

• What parts of the presentation were most effective?
• Where did I lose your attention?
• How clear was my main message?
• Did my body language support what I was saying?

This detailed feedback helps you understand exactly what to improve.

Use the feedback you receive to make small changes in your next presentation. Don’t try to fix everything at once. Focus on one or two areas for improvement each time. This approach leads to steady growth in your presentation skills.

Reflect and Improve After Every Presentation

Keep a record of your progress. After each presentation, write down what went well and what you want to improve. This reflection helps you track your development over time. You might notice patterns or recurring challenges that you can work on.

Choose one specific skill to improve for your next presentation. For example, you might focus on using more vocal variety or handling questions better. By concentrating on one area at a time, you’ll see clear improvements in your overall presentation skills.

How Impact Factory Can Help

At Impact Factory , we offer specialised training to enhance your presentation skills. Our courses cater to various needs and experience levels, from beginners to seasoned presenters.

For those new to presenting, our Presentation Skills course covers the essentials. Experienced speakers can refine their techniques in our Advanced Presentation Skills program . We also offer One-to-One Coaching for personalised guidance.

To address specific presentation contexts, we provide courses in Storytelling for Business , Pitching for Business and Public Speaking . These programs help you tailor your skills to different professional situations.

Our experienced trainers will work with you to overcome challenges and build confidence. We’re here to help you become a more impactful presenter, regardless of your current comfort level with public speaking. Reach out to us for a consultation to find the right course for your professional development.

What are 5 good presentation skills?

Five key presentation skills are:

• Clear and concise communication
• Engaging body language
• Effective use of visual aids
• Audience engagement
• Confident delivery

What are the 5 P’s of presentation skills?

The 5 P’s of presentation skills are:

• Preparation: Thoroughly research and organise your content.
• Practice: Rehearse your presentation multiple times.
• Poise: Maintain a confident and composed demeanour.
• Projection: Speak clearly and loudly enough for all to hear.
• Passion: Show enthusiasm for your topic.

What are the 10 qualities of a good presentation?

A good presentation should be:

• Well-structured
• Clear and concise
• Relevant to the audience
• Visually appealing
• Delivered confidently
• Interactive
• Time-conscious

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Are you ready to take the next step? Our resources can help you:

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