Speeches

Envisioning Possibilities

Health

Fear of giving a speech can affect your health.

 

          Picture this: you’re standing in front of a sea of expectant faces, your palms sweating, knees knocking, and your mind going blank faster than a dropped call.  Yes, it’s the dreaded speech-giving moment, where even the most eloquent among us can become a stumbling mess.

          As a long-time toastmaster, I have found a few helpful hints to improve speaker health.

A grand opening line is a good start.  The celebrated speaker, Patricia Fripp, suggests a few opening lines for your next business presentation.

The purpose of this meeting is to . . .

Thank you for the opportunity to . . .

You will remember at our last meeting . . .

Thank you for your support with . . .

We have an amazing opportunity to . . .

There will never be a more perfect time to . .

Congratulations . . .

 

Last but not least – I need to offer a plug for Toastmasters.

Sign on to Toastmasters.org and “find a club”.   A few have remained online after COVID-19.  Even though you don’t get that in-person experience, you will get a speaking experience.

          My personal experience in Toastmasters launched a new career for me in 2000.  After being a school teacher, a presenter for my company, and a business owner required to give presentations to get the work, I didn’t know what I was missing.  I could have been so much more.  In addition, I’ve won speech contests and gained new clients.

If you would like to join me at Lehigh Valley Toastmasters for a new experience, we meet on the 2^nd  and 4^th Wed. from 7-9.   www.LVToastmasters.org .