Professional Training: Murphy's Laws for Speakers

1. Speech begins when you arrive - you are always on.

Don't argue with staff.
Don't bury your head in the script with last minute changes.
Make your presence known.

2. Look in a mirror before you go on.

Check your hair, clothes and teeth.

3. Make those butterflies fly in formation.

Nervous energy can work for you: take deep breaths, walk around the room, bring water to the lectern.

4. Check the equipment.

Adjust the lectern mike or practice with the wireless mike; sync the digital projector with your laptop; bring hardcopy of screens in case equipment malfunctions.

5. Find familiar faces in the crowd - plant friends and colleagues.

Speak to people, not the walls and ceiling. Memorize the first line. Memorize the last line.

6. Actions speak louder than words.

Avoid folded arms. Use your hands as punctuation. Don't slouch. Avoid playing with jewelry or coins in your pocket. No fondling your tie or wringing your hands -- grip the lectern instead.

7. Practice with your props.

Get to the site about 30 minutes early - view the surroundings. Have remote device for the projector? Are the graphics visible from the back of the room? Fasten lavaliere microphone close to chin. Don't use flip chart if handwriting is poor.

8. Connect with the audience.

Give them a reason to listen. Develop a theme and repeat it throughout the speech.

9. Tell them what you're going to say.

Then tell them.
Summarize what you told them.

10. PRACTICE