An Introduction to
Speech
What is Speech?
 The
expression of or the ability to express
thoughts and feelings
A
formal address or discourse delivered to
an audience.
 We
technically use speech everyday, it is a
form of communication!
Characteristics of a Good Speech

A good attention-getter, or hook. This reels the audience in from the beginning
and they are more likely to pay attention.

Clarity
Clarity is an essential feature of a good speech. Speech should be clear and
unambiguous so that the audience can understand it easily. If it is not clear
enough to express its meaning to the audience, it will become ineffective.

Definiteness of Message
Message of the speech should be definite and relevant with the subject
matter. Do not go off on different topics, that is how you lose people

Conciseness
Audience becomes impatient to long speech. Hence, speech should be as
concise as possible. However, it should not incomplete.

Interesting
Speech should be delivered in an interesting and pleasing way so that the
audience is motivated to pay attention. In order to make the speech
interesting, various stories, examples, quotations and jokes can be cited
Characteristics of a Good Speech (cont.)

Informal Touch
Though speech is a formal address, it should be presented in a personal
and informal way.

Considering the Audience
Speech is delivered to a specific audience. So the speaker should
actively consider the expectations, interest and nature of the audience.

Speaking Slowly
An ideal speech is one which is delivered slowly and in usual tone. It
helps the audience to hear and understand the message clearly

Free from Emotions
Another important feature of good speech is that it should be delivered
in an unbiased and un-emotional way. Speaker’s emotion may drive him
away from the main theme of the speech.
Characteristics of a Good Speech (cont.)

Use of Body Language
Good Speech goes with necessary body language. Therefore, at
the time of delivering speech, the speaker should use various
nonverbal cues.

Ensuring Participation of Audience
A good speech is one which ensures participation from the
audience with the speaker. That means, the audience will ensure
their attention through effective listening, expressing their
solidarity with the speech and so on.
Characteristics of a Good Speaker

Make eye contact. Just don’t stare at one person, you’ll make them
uncomfortable

Make your point and stick to it. If you change it in the middle of your speech,
it’ll confuse just about everyone. Your audience will get bored and stop
listening

Speak clearly, don’t mumble.

Adjust the speech to the audience.

Don’t use one tone, it will drive everyone insane. Have your voice and tone
fluctuate.
Characteristics of a Good Speaker
(cont.)

Do not patronize. A.k.a. do not treat people like they are little children. They
will become hostile and ignore everything you are saying.

Be interesting.

Speak up so everyone can hear you!

Be honest with what you have to say.

Organize what you are going to say, especially in long speeches. Make an
outline or words to help you jog your memory

Use your hands, but not too much.

Smile, be friendly and warm.

Practice!
How to get over Speech Anxiety

It’s one of the most common phobias in the world.

But first, answer this question: What do you do in an effort to control your
fear of public speaking?

I am giving you two minutes to make a list!

How does this help your anxiety?
How to Get Rid of Speech Anxiety

Find the source of your fear and face it

Make sure you are prepared and feel prepared.

Reread everything and practice.

You can record yourself or practice in a mirror.

Deep breaths

Relax

Realize that most people do not notice your nervousness

Don’t overthink

Just be yourself and not worry on what others may think!