How I did it: My friend Carol asked me months ago if I would speak to the local Rotary group about my work. I said yes for two reasons, one I wanted to help Carol and I wanted to have the opportunity to share about what I do for our community. The real reason I said yes though was because I wanted to keep practicing my public speaking. I get REALLY nervous and I think only with practice will I get better.

Lessons & tips:

• Find a group or organization locally that has to find speakers for programs (Chambers, Rotary, Lions, etc.) and ask if you could give a presentation - or tell a friend who is a member that you would like to do this.
• Be prepared. Have your slides, presentation, and thoughts all down before you go.
• Have a tight presentation - even if you don't use PowerPoint have cards or something that will guide you through your talk.
• Don't write your speech. That will be BORING - you have to KNOW your subject and be willing to react to questions and comments - engage your audience.
• Take a deep breath and do it.

Resources:

• PowerPoint - keynote would work too.
• Mac Laptop - but any kind would do

Oct 07, 2009, 06:50AM PDT | 0 comments | 1 cheer