2. • Effective speaking is when you can speak clearly and
fluently.
• It involves being able to speak clearly so that people pay
attention and understand.
• It also involves using non-verbal communication, such as
facial expressions, gestures, and body postures, to affect
how your audience receives your message.
3. How to speak effectively?
• Speak Clearly and Slowly: Enunciate your words and avoid speaking
too quickly. Clear articulation allows your audience to understand your
message without straining.
• Maintain Eye Contact: Establishing eye contact with your audience or
conversation partner shows that you're engaged and interested in
what you're saying or hearing. It also fosters a sense of connection.
• Use Natural Gestures: Gestures can enhance your message and make
it more engaging. Use natural and purposeful gestures that
complement your words, but avoid overdoing it.
• Vary Your Tone and Pitch: Monotone speech can be monotonous and
dull. Vary your tone and pitch to add interest and convey different
emotions.
4. • Practice Active Listening: Effective communication is a two-way
street. Listen attentively to what others are saying before responding,
as this promotes meaningful conversations.
• Avoid Empty Fillers (Um, Uh, Like, etc.): Fillers can distract from your
message and undermine your credibility. Practice speaking without
relying on these verbal crutches.
• Organise Your Thoughts: Before speaking, take a moment to organise
your thoughts. This will help you present your ideas clearly and
logically.
• Tailor Your Message to Your Audience: Consider who you're speaking
to and adjust your language, tone, and examples to resonate with your
audience's interests and needs.
5. • Use Pauses Effectively: Pauses can emphasise important points and
allow your audience to digest information. Don't rush through your
speech; embrace strategic pauses.
• Practice Deep Breathing: Deep breaths can help you control
nervousness and project your voice more effectively. Practice deep
breathing before speaking engagements.
• Minimise Distractions: Eliminate distracting habits or movements,
such as fidgeting, excessive hand gestures, or pacing.
• Be Mindful of Your Posture: Stand or sit up straight to project
confidence and openness. Good posture also allows for better breath
control.
6. • Tell Stories and Use Examples: Stories and examples make your
message more relatable and memorable. They help illustrate complex
concepts and engage your audience.
• Seek Feedback: Don't hesitate to ask for feedback from trusted
friends, colleagues, or mentors. Constructive criticism can help you
identify areas for improvement.
• Practice, Practice, Practice: Like any skill, effective speaking requires
practice. Rehearse your speeches or conversations beforehand to build
confidence and fluency.
• Record Yourself: Recording yourself while speaking allows you to
identify areas where you can improve, such as tone, pacing, and
gestures.
7. • Embrace Authenticity: Be yourself when speaking.
Authenticity builds trust and connection with your audience.
• Manage Nervousness: Feeling nervous is natural, but
practice, preparation, and positive self-talk can help you
manage nerves effectively.
• Stay Open to Adaptation: Be willing to adjust your
approach based on the feedback and reactions of your
audience. Flexibility enhances your communication skills.