I was briefly the president of the Real Toastmasters of Orange County... I know I know (slaps forehead), but the title was relevant for obvious reasons! This is not an ad (enjoy the free promotion), but I thought I would share a few useful tips provided to new Toastmasters International members. For more info, visit their site HERE. We don't have to reinvent the wheel. As my dad often says, "think smarter not harder". Perhaps you can put these skills into good use during an afternoon meeting, in the classroom, or at your local community event.
1. Know your material
2. Practice. Practice. Practice!
3. Know the audience
4. Know the room
5. Relax
6. Visualize yourself giving your speech
7. Realize that people want you to succeed
8. Don't apologize
9. Concentrate on the message -- not the medium
10. Gain experience
These are awesome principles to enact as you improve your ability to stand in front of a crowd and command the attention that you deserve for the amazing things you have to say! Take advantage of the opportunities around you to improve yourself. If you know of more programs that you would like me to share, please drop a note and I'll look into aggregating that information for a future post!
I'm here for it!
- Dr. Queen