A speech is similar to a discussion in that it requires you to communicate your message to another person. It makes no difference if you’re talking to one person or a thousand in this regard. The problematic aspect is that we are all bombarded with a lot of information in a short amount of time, and it can be challenging for a speaker to cut through the clutter and demonstrate that what you’re saying is essential.
While you’re speaking, people are probably reading emails, surfing the web, investigating who you are, or taking notes on your speech on their phones, tablets, or computers. It’s your responsibility to get people to put down their phones and pay attention to what you’re saying. You can’t force them to put down their phones, but you can get them to do so by creating an environment that thrills and engages the audience.
The following are the finest techniques to engage with your audience;
- Tell small stories.
- Keep in mind who you’re trying to reach.
- Be aware of the energy in the room and be willing to laugh at yourself.
- Make an effort to improve your nonverbal body language.