One skill that you will use throughout your life is public speaking. Many people fear the thought of having to speak in front of large groups of people. However, if you take your time to develop a well structured speech, you will find the art of public speaking less daunting. Crafting the perfect speech does not begin with what you would like to say. 

 

It begins with asking questions:

1. Who is my audience?

2. What preconceptions about my topic will they walk into the room with?

3. What concepts do I want them to leave the room believing?

4. How much time will I have?

5. How many people will there be in the audience?

6. How will the room be set up and how will that effect my delivery?

7. Where is my speech placed in their agenda and what style will I need to present in order to keep their attention?

 

After you have answered these questions it is time to become an expert on your topic. 

1. Research

2. Ask questions of people who know

3. Quote other experts

4. Find facts

5. Use personal experience

 

When all of that is done it is time to craft your speech. Most speeches are structured in a way so that they are easily understood and content is repeated for optimal retention.

1. Your INTRODUCTION should be upbeat and tell the audience what you are going to tell them.

2. The BODY of your speech should include factual information and stories so your content is easily remembered.

3. Your CONCLUSION summarizes the main points of your speech and includes a call for action or a challenge.