There are a myriad of thoughts going through my head when I deliver a speech.
The most obvious of course being the next line that I need to deliver. Taking that to a bigger picture I need to think about where the next line is in perspective to the overall story. Sometimes I need to divert from my script to provide clarity for the audience on an element of the speech or to answer an urgent question. The challenge can be to get back to my original story.
Other thoughts I would put into logistical categories:
Eye Contact: Am I making eye contact with everyone in the audience that I can? Are they returning my eye contact? Do they look like they are understanding my presentation or do they look puzzled? Does it look like they agree with me or are they disagreeing?
Speed/rate: Am I delivering my presentation at a rate that my audience can understand?
Positioning: Am I taking advantage of my speaking area? If I’m videoing my presentation and I am also my own camera operator, am I staying within my camera lens area?
Gestures: Am I using appropriate hand and facial gestures? Are they serving the purpose of what I want them to do i.e. add to my story or are they taking away from it?
Envisioning: While I prepare for my presentation my envisioning my success, I keep those successful thoughts in my mind while I am presenting.
At a different level of consciousness, I am aware of the room temperature and what is going on around the speaking room if it is in a public venue.
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For further discussion on public speaking, speech development, communication skills and Toastmasters, visit the Live For Excellence Book Store for the following publications:
Blow Your Own Horn!: Personal Branding for Business Professionals
Power Networking For Shy People: How to Network Like a Pro
The Power of Persuasion: Mastering the Art of Influence
The Power of Promotion: Online Marketing For Toastmasters Club Growth
The Savvy Emcee: How to be a Dynamic Master of Ceremonies
Working With Words: Adding Life to Your Oral Presentations
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Rae A. Stonehouse is an author, speaker, and self-publishing consultant dedicated to helping others embrace constant improvement and overcome challenges. With over 40 years of experience as a Registered Nurse in psychiatry and mental health, Rae brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for self-development to his writing and presentations.
As a 25+ year member of Toastmasters International, Rae has systematically built his communication abilities and self-confidence to share his insights as an author and speaker. His self-help books and personal development presentations aim to have conversational one-on-one connections with readers and audiences.
Rae is known for his wry sense of humor and sage advice delivered in a relatable coaching style. After four decades as a nurse, Rae has rewired rather than retired, actively writing and pursuing public speaking. He strives to share lessons learned to help others achieve personal and professional growth.
To learn more about Rae and his approach to constant improvement, visit his website at Live For Excellence Productions or to learn more about his publications visit Live For Excellence Store
