The Art Of Speaking In Public

The Art Of Speaking In Public

Speaking in public requires few rules, if any. But what is a necessity and what makes a difference in endearing a crowd or alienating them is the ability to project a certain credibility and to invoke an image that the crowd can relate to. The more nostalgic this recollection, the better. That is why, you will see politicians invoke Reagan, or Kennedy and even Martin Luther King.

Imagery

People do not remember the full content of another person’s words. A great orator who used countless allegory to convey a message was Jesus Christ. That is why the New Testament is full of parables. That is how, he conveyed his message. Off course, speaking in parables has its limitations.  It is meant to draw imagery based on the audience’s experiences. If you want to relate to people in a fishing town, then you talk about fish. But relating a fisherman’s story to an urban financier, will not hit as well. Imagery is very important because people remember in images.

Appeal To Emotion

In choosing whether to appeal to a person’s intellect or emotions, the choice depends on the intended outcome of the speaker. If the objective is to convince a crown instantly with no room for deliberation, and the action point is needed right away, then appeal to the crowd’s common emotions. If it is intended to be a cerebral decision then appeal to the person’s intellect. When speaking to a person, appeal to the intellect, when appealing to a mob, charge their emissions.

Nostalgia

Speeches with nostalgia gain traction and gain mileage. This ties in to the appeal to emotion and the imagery that is needed to get to a person’s psyche into the proper frame of mind. Once a proper state of mind is achieved, any message can be inserted and any action requested of the audience. This is one of the best ways to move crowds. This is how Hitler changed a nation.

The art of public speaking is something learned best through experience. It is not something one starts off with. The basics needed to be in place and these basics need to be thoroughly rehearsed. In the time one takes to practice the art of public speaking a few more elements need to be at the front of one’s mind. First thing is that the person needs to be aware of, is that a good speaker is not just happy to hear his own voice. He is looking to deliver a message. Focus on the message and the reaction desired. Second, never hesitate in striking when the proverbial iron is hot. The punchline must be ready to go at moment’s notice and delivered on cue with the severity of a heart attack.

Carolyn Stewart is passionate about delivering effective public speeches

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