'Speech is after all only a system of gestures' - Robin George Collingwood (1889-1943), British philosopher. Principles of Art, chapter 11, Oxford University Press (1938). I want you to have a real, long hard look and observe people when they speak. Notice anything? It doesn't matter whether it's a teacher talking in front of a class, a friend talking on the phone, or a newsreader reading aloud the evening news, what you should have noticed is that all these people move - their hands, heads, eyes, and their voice also change depending on what and who they are speaking about and to. Firstly, when people speak to one another, they look at each other. Secondly, people move and use gestures. Thirdly, people will use and change their voice to make others listen. When you get up to speak in front of others, you will ultimately be the focus of your audience's attention. As a speaker it is your responsibility to deliver your message and enhance it by paying attention to these three presentation points: eye contact, gestures and voice projection. Eye contact It is said that a person's eyes are the key to the soul. Therefore, when giving a presentation you should establish eye contact with your audience as much as possible. So, during your presentation, try to look around the room or if it is a big lecture room, change position and change your gaze to look at different points for a few seconds. Looking around and talking to people will get them better focused on you and to listen to what you have to say. Gestures A gesture is when you move your hands, arms or head, etc. to express an idea or when you want emphasise something. Gestures should be natural and spontaneous actions. They are a natural way we communicate with others. However, if you don't use any or use too many or you are probably going to look unnatural. Before giving a speech you may want to practice gesturing first; for example, while speaking informally to friends, family members or even coworkers. You may want to video tape yourself or watch yourself speaking in front of a mirror before you give a speech to identify any bad habits and eliminate any distracting mannerisms as well. What you should remember is when giving a talk to be involved in communicating and speaking to your audience rather than worrying about your hands or whether you are using them or not. Gestures should reflect and enhance the content of your presentation, not distract you or your audience from your purpose. The voice Here there are two important factors to remember - projection and variation. Speaking in front of a large room requires you to speak up and/or project your voice so that your audience can hear you and understand you. Imagine your audience as a slightly deaf uncle; you may need to speak up so as to be heard better; your voice should be slightly stronger, louder and slightly slower but still clear and strong (but don't shout that's just rude!). Also, if there are any new points you should change or vary the tone of your voice to emphasise important facts or key words or to signal to your audience a change in the direction of your speech. Exercise Match the topics with the corresponding don'ts. Some things to avoid ... 1) Eye contact 2) Gestures 3) Voice projection A) Don't overdo your body movements; you want your audience interested in your talk rather than looking like you're demonstrating a swimming lesson! B) There is nothing more boring than monotone speech; vary your speech in a natural way to make your audience listen - you don't want to send them to sleep! C) Look around the room and make sure you are speaking to everyone; don't stare at just one or two audience members or over their heads this shows your aren't interested in them! Answers: 1C, 2A, 3B
