More tips on speaking confidently, with authority

In my last column I addressed filler words such as “like,” “ummm” and “you know” that detract from conversation and public speaking.

I provided tips on how to reduce their presence in the American lexicon by practicing one-minute speeches and dropping coffee beans into a can each time they are used.

As you practice reducing these filler words from daily use, you’ll present yourself in a more sophisticated manner when speaking publicly. Here are tips on other ways to add polish and confidence to your speaking style.

An effective speaking style

Our everyday speaking style — our “spoken image” — carries over into public speaking situations and business presentations. It is common for people to discover the problems they thought existed only in public speaking are present in all of their speech.

Our spoken image is a combination of our appearance, posture, movements and voice.

The sound of your voice is a key element in shaping your overall image. Many people are held back from a promotion or other professional accomplishment merely because of the sound of their voice. Some voices are nasal, too soft or sound squeaky and high-pitched, while others are heavily accented, making it difficult to be understood.

To get your effective spoken image ready, try to:

◆ Relax: Relaxation is basic to all aspects of voice production.

◆ Inhale: Your breath is the energy source for your voice.

◆ Articulate: Energy and authority in your voice come from good articulation.

◆ Modulate your voice: Use its lowest register to avoid a high pitch.

◆ Use downward inflections: The definite sound at the end of words and sentences gives your voice authority.

◆ Pause: Effective pauses provide energy, authority and audience awareness.

◆ Project: Think about reaching your voice forward and handing your words to your audience.

When talking on the phone to a person whom you have never met face to face, remember the sound of your voice forms a lasting first impression.

Prepare your mind and body

A good speech has two purposes — to entice and inform. Look for a creative angle for your introduction. Practice by standing in front of a full-length mirror or recording yourself. Take note of your mannerisms and posture. You — your body from head to toe, your gestures and your voice — are a delivery system.

Watch yourself in action:

◆ Is your expression pleasant?

◆ Are your gestures lively?

◆ Are you animated?

◆ Do you look like you are having a conversation with a friend?

◆ Are you relaxed or too intense? Clothes add or detract from your speech:

◆ Patterns are too busy.

◆ Red gives energy.

◆ Black can be harsh or powerful.

◆ Peacock blue, purple or emerald green are safe.

◆ White is iffy because it reflects the lights.

Prepare a good presentation

Analyze your audience and define your purpose before you begin to create your presentation, which should include a strong opening and closing and attention-getters throughout, such as jokes and funny stories. Make sure you are supporting your main points.

The delivery

◆ If you know ahead of time what you will be presenting, memorize and rehearse to make sure you are prepared.

◆ Know your subject well so that you refer to your notes but don’t read them.

◆ If you must look at your notes, remember to look up often, make eye contact and smile. A pleasant expression draws others to you. Pick opposite points in the audience and scan back and forth across the room.

◆ If you do not have a podium, stand straight and tall with arms by your side or let your hands rest at your waist. Avoid clasping your hands together below your waist.

◆ Your feet should be slightly apart, 2 or 3 inches.

◆ Stand tall, tuck in, suck in and create your own unique presence. Always look like you are important, an expert.

◆ Your opening first two sentences are a way of breaking the ice and establishing a basis for communication.

◆ Speak at a language level that is suitable for the occasion and audience.

◆ Gestures are a natural way to show enthusiasm or emphasize a point.

◆ Plan a “twinkle” to use in your speech. A “twinkle” is a comment, anecdote, example or fact that is upbeat and ear-catching.

◆ Use visuals if possible — PowerPoint, photographs, flip charts, YouTube clips and online links.

◆ Pausing adds energy to a talk and gives your audience time to absorb your words. The pause creates instant authority. Filler words or repeated clearing of the throat detract from authority because they communicate a fear of silence.

◆ Create a sense of energy in your voice and mannerisms. Speak distinctly and use a strong tone of voice.

◆ Before you walk up to the podium to speak, make sure you or someone else has checked to see that the light works on the lectern and the microphone is set properly. Ask for a neck or clip-on microphone so you can move around.

About 55% of the effect you have on your audience comes from your face and body, 37% from your voice and 8% from what you actually say.

Keeping your audience interested, involved and entertained is essential because to communicate effectively, you need their full attention. A speaker’s poise and confidence communicates as effectively as the actual words that are spoken.