As a professional speaker I give many talks – often the same talk to many different audiences. Once you have a really good talk or presentation it is easy to feel comfortable with it and to give it in a confident manner. But just as every speaker can be a better speaker, so every speech can be a better speech. If you have an excellent presentation or talk on a topic that you know well then do not rest on your laurels; seek to improve it.

Here are six ways to seek to improve your talk:

Identify the oldest and weakest material and, if possible, replace it with topical and up-to-date examples. This applies particularly to stories, quotes, images and videos.Examine your opening and closing lines. Could you make them stronger and more arresting?Look at the structure of your talk. Does it move from premise to conclusion in a logical manner which the audience can easily follow? Could you make it easier to follow?Add more contrast. Every talk needs light and shade. If your material is very serious then try to add a little humour and light relief.Does your talk include evidence e.g. data and examples? It should. Check to see if there is something more accurate and up to date available.Add more pauses for effect. If you have given the talk a number of times then you know which lines best engage the audience – so emphasise them with variation in volume, intonation and pause.

Work on your talk to make it even better and do not hesitate to ask an expereinced speaker for tips on how to improve your performance.

More great advice in this book which is available in paperback, ebook and audible formats.

160 Top tips for Public Speakers on Amazon.com

160 Top Tips for Public Speakers on Amazon.co.uk

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