Ever wonder what the true difference is between an OK speech and an outstanding presentation? It’s called the “wow factor”… and it’s what every public speaker hopes to achieve as a presenter. Getting to this point is not a matter of being the best public speaker, but in learning the skills to improve the quality of your speeches.
How you earn the ability to provide the wow factor in every speech you give is determined by several personal goals you set for yourself. This enables you to deliver a speech worthy of respect. Here are 4 steps in developing the wow factor in your speeches.
Open with a bang. The best speakers understand that opening up a speech in a big way is critical to getting the audience excited about what you are about to say. Therefore, before you dive into the elements that will become your speech, consider one true story or event that will best illustrate the opening sequence of what you are about to share. Accompany this with any visuals, props or audio resources you can use to increase the impact of your presentation. Choose something that many people can relate to, and you will be ready to wow your audience from the very beginning.
Give your speech structure. The best speaker takes the time to outline the speech itself into easy to follow sections. These should flow into each other with transitional stories, examples and media that will draw the audience in more. Lay out the elements of your speech on cards and practice them from start to finish to make sure they make the best sense. It is from this foundation that your speech will take on a life of its own as you deliver it live in front of your audience. Use this structure to give you a place of peace and confidence, instead of fear. Your ability to clearly talk to your audience will help you to wow them.
Provide inspiration. The best speeches include elements of inspiration and encouragement. After all, your job as a public speaker is to enlighten and empower your audience with information. This information has to have impact in order to motivate listeners to take some form of positive action. By hearing the inspiring tales of others who have experienced the thrill of overcoming great obstacles to find positive outcomes, you will be wowing others to be better too. Use the inspiration within you to light the candle in others as you deliver your speech.
End with a challenge. Giving a speech is not just about sharing a little information and then moving on to the next task. A wow presenter always leaves his or her listeners with a personal challenge to take the information and apply it to real life in some way. By challenging your audience, you will provide greater impact on others, and become viewed as an innovator. Follow up with those who decide to accept the challenge, and you’ll be asked to come back for more speaking opportunities.
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