Having trouble making a toast or speaking in public? Try one of these 10 tips

Are you one of those people who have trouble making a toast or otherwise speaking in public?  For some folks, singing in the shower is easy, but singing in front of an audience is scary.  Speaking into a microphone instead of singing can be equally nerve-wracking for people who are uncomfortable being the center of attention.

But whether it be a wedding or other celebrations, or merely standing in front of a room of your peers and making a business presentation, PUBLIC SPEAKING IS EASY IF YOU FOLLOW THESE “TOASTMASTERS” TEN STEPS:

1. Know your material. You know how easy it is to talk about yourself?  That’s because you’re the one who knows most about you.
2. Practice. Practice. Practice!
3. Know the audience. Have you ever been to a party where you didn’t know anyone?  Remember how hard it was to start some of those initial conversations, and wouldn’t it have been easier if you were there with a wingman to introduce you to a few people?  Speaking in public is the same way — it’s always easier to speak to people you already know… and who know you.
4. Know the room. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings.  Be comfortable with where you are.
5. Relax.
6. Visualize.  Whether it be yourself giving the speech, or the warm reception you’ll receive when you finish — a positive image in your mind reinforces the job you’re doing
7. Realize that people want you to succeed. The audience is there on purpose, to see you.
8. Don’t apologize.  If something went wrong or feels off, chance are that you’re the only one who noticed it.  Don’t worry about mistakes or point them out.
9. Concentrate on the message.  The world does not revolve around reading the text off the Powerpoint slide – the audience can do that for themselves.  Focus on the message that you’re trying to convey from the presentation and the points that you want the audience to take away.  What’s the purpose behind the slides?
10. Gain experience. The more you do it, the better you’ll be.  If at first you don’t succeed, try again.