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FIVE MAJOR BLUNDERS TO AVOID WHEN SPEAKING
By David LaManna

When we speak our choice of words never gives our entire message. The major part of our speech's power and effectiveness has to do with many other factors including eye contact, vocal variety, non-verbal signals and preparation. Try improving on the following five blunders that many speakers make and watch your speech impact skyrocket.

1. Not Making Eye Contact: Without eye contact we won't make a good connection with our audience and our mealling and purpose could be lost or misconstrued. With proper eye contact our audience feels directly involved in our speech. Eye contact helps enhance our sincerity and honesty in the minds of our attdience. And speakers are judged more credible when they make eye contact.

2.Being Dull and Monotone: When we speak, a vitality-filled voice filled is a necessity. The first rule of voice is to be enthusiastic. We can't convince any body of anything if our communication is dull and lifeless. Moreover, we can't get anyone to listen attentively if our speech is devoid of expression and excitement. Use variety in your voice to liven up your message.

3.Negelecting Non-Verbal Signals: When we speak all of our gestures and mannerisms affect the audience's reception of our message. Our movement, gesturing and appearance almost always attract attention. This non-verbal communication can either support and reinforce what we say or it can detract from and diminish the power of our speaking. Don't underestimate the power and significance of the silent elements of speaking.

4.Using Excessive Fillers: When we use fillers ard non-words in our speaking we dilute the strength of our message. Fillers (such as uh, um, er, you know, okay) can give the impression that we're nervous or uncomfortable. These "empty extras" only serve to detract from our speech. Phrases such as "Do you know what I mean?" and "It's kinda like" are also unnecessary baggage in our speech that only serve to weaken our impact. Practice any speech you plan to give and work on eliminating ally useless fillers.

5.Trying To "Wing It": Many people who are otherwise confident have sounded terrible at the podium because they didn't take the time to prepare. Before speaking we need to master our subject completely. Preparation is the ultimate weapon to eliminate stage fright and to look and be our best at the lectern. It is the silver bullet that kills fear and builds our confidence. Get prepared before you approach any podium.

© Copyright 2004, David LaManna. All Rights Reserved.