Leaders Must Speak with Confidence

“There are three things to aim at in public speaking: first, to get into your subject, then to get your subject into yourself, and lastly, to get your subject into the heart of your audience”- Alexander Gregg

The ability to speak well does not ensure that you will become a great leader. It is still possible for a leader to inspire his people though he is not a good speaker. But it will be very difficult.

Like other leadership and management skills, speaking to groups is a matter of observing a simple set of rules. No one is naturally a brilliant speaker. Even professionals admit to being nervous. I know. I am always nervous though I've been speaking to groups since 1987. In fact, I will worry if I will not feel the "nervousness" before and during the speaking situation.

But there are managers, and leaders like you, who avoid speaking situations. They find themselves ill-equip to speak. This people went to college and even took post graduate studies. But when it comes to speaking before groups, a kid from kindergarten will show more courage. So, here are some practical tips for all of those who are trusted to speak before groups.

1. Your purpose is more important than what you feel. Do not allow nervousness to prevent you from addressing your team. It is an important part of role as leader and you must learn to feel less nervous and be content to speak at larger gatherings. I tell you, most of them are afraid to speak too. They will be thankful that you have the courage to share with them what they need to hear.

2. Plan with IPSQC. This is a very simple method your teachers taught you when you were in fourth grade. Of course they did not have a name for this. But try this method.
. Introducing to gain the group’s attention and interest,
. Presenting to show your main points.
. Summary covering the main points briefly again,
. invite Questions and
. end with a Conclusion, pointing the way a head ending on a high note, and sending the audience away fired up.

3. Use cards for your notes. In Toastmasters we are encourage not to use any notes. But there people who are very effective when they have cue cards. Index cards are ideal, and should be easily readable at arm’s length. Use headings and a sequence of ideas under each, and number the cards in case you drop them. Remember to write in big letters.

4. What's In It For Them? Explain in your introduction the relevance of the subject to your audience, the sequence of the talk and whether they should ask questions during the talk or the end of your presentation. Tell them whether you will be giving out printed notes so they know whether to make their own. It is my style to give them handouts during my presentation. Most learners are kinesthetic. Allowing them to write will make them remember and process better my presentations.

5. Practice with real audience. Always rehearse talks aloud including the presentation that you make to colleagues on special occasions. Giving them wedding presents, long-service awards and so on. As you career progresses, ‘saying a few words’ will become a regular and enjoyable duty. I really encourage people to practice with real people not with mirrors. Mirrors do not react. What you see is yourself at your most awkward moment. Of course, you may present if front of your dogs and cats, but they will not be able to give you valuable feedback.

6. Shorter speeches are usually better. Do not let your speech overrun, especially if yours is one of the number of presentations at a conference or company meeting. It is more courteous to take up slightly less than your allocated time. Your rehearsal will tell you how much material to discard. To overcome gaps, you could send reading material in advance. Take this from me, your first role as a communicator-leader is to illuminate the essentials.

7. Help their eyes. Use visuals to make the presentation more interesting and to express your message. If you are using videos have them made professionally. People are accustomed to high standards and anything less will detract from the presentation. It does not have to be expensive though. I bough a Flip Video which is really great and I edit my videos using Moviemaker.

8. Mind your posture. Do not put your notes on a table and lean over them- your voice will be directed downwards. Use the lectern. The lectern, of course, has a greater use than a paper holder. We can talk about that next time.

9. Be careful with your hands because it may say something your mouth do not utter. Many speakers do not know what to do with their hands. Do not put them in your pockets, behind your back or cross your arms. Let them be on your sides. As your confidence grows you will begin to use gestures naturally to support what you are saying. I find hand gestures as one of the best visual aids. During my seminars, I asked people to explain in gibberish what they did for the day. They find that they are forced to use gestures. Manage your hand movements.

10. Project your voice to fill the room. But do not shout. Assume that someone in the back may not hear your word. Keep your head up, breath at punctuation marks and do not rush. During your practice sessions, ask your friends to spread themselves in the room. You will get an idea on how loud or soft your voice is.

11. Silence is okay. Some speakers are afraid to pause. They do not want the audience to think that they have forgotten their speech. Listen. Use silences to emphasize points of particular importance. Silence is a gift to your audience. You are giving them the opportunity to think. Silence is also your gift to yourself. Silence allows you to listen to your audience. Just try it next time. I am sure you will find this one tip useful.

12. Go to school with the winners. Watch expert orators. You might not agree with their views but you can learn their techniques. I like watching Joyce Meyer. I love Ellen DeGeneres for she has her unique way of connecting with the audience. And of course, I like the fact that she gives a lot. I used that method in my seminars here in the Philippines. I give something even before I start. Energy fills the room. Amazing.

13. Do not rehearse hand movements. If they are not spontaneous they look odd. If you are not naturally animated, use your voice and visual for emphasis. Let me tell you the secret. Focus on your audience. Observe how they react to what you say. Emphasize points with your voice. You will find your hands following your intentions.

14. Make eye contact with as many members of the group as possible. Beware of homing on a person who is showing tremendous enthusiasm for what you are saying. Speak to everyone. Do not move your eyes from person to person in a set pattern- let them focus on people even with huge gatherings. The last time you saw a big star live on stage, didn’t you feel him or her make eye contact with you? Some toastmasters suggest you use the Z pattern. Do not follow that advice. You are not an electric fan.

15. Blocking is essential. Place yourself in your audience's point of view. They read from left to right. If you use a flip-chart stand it to your left. And if you are not experienced at using one, practice. Use large writing, simple illustrations and color to add interest. You must also use the same blocking position when you are using PowerPoint presentations. In some companies, they placed the white canvass at the center. Forgive them. That's what they in the cinemas. Of course, that is because people go to cinemas to watch movies, not to listen to speakers. When you are the speaker, remember that you are the focal point.

16. You are a visual aid too. Pay careful attention to your appearance. If you look good you will feel more confident. This is always important but especially so if it is your own staff you are addressing. I saw this one video where Leo Buscaglia told the audience that he was wearing his new suit because he respected his audience.

17. It is okay to say thank you. Bring speeches to a close, thank your audience for their attention and sit down unhesitating. Even when making an impromptu speech, perhaps to propose a vote of thanks, don’t ramble or talk until you run out of ideas. Keep it brief and to the point. The last impression is the lasting impression.

18. End with your message. Most people will remember the last words you have said. Craft your conclusion in manner that even those whose minds were absent during your speech may still get your point at the end.

I hope that you will try these 18 simple and practical tips. As a leader, people expect you to articulate the vision and mission of the group. I believe that meetings, conferences, and learning sessions are great opportunities for the leaders to articulate the direction and destiny of the organization.

Make the most of every speaking opportunity. Improve your speaking skills every time you speak before groups. Remember, not everyone is given the opportunity to lead, and not everyone is given the right to speak.