Whether standing in a grocery line, getting your hair cut by a hairdresser or barber, volunteering at a nearby food bank, or talking with your workmates in the breakroom,.....you have a stage to practice anything you want to say regardless of what you are doing in your everyday life. There are so many opportunities to practice, practice, practice.

My husband and I raise goats.  They listen extremely well and don’t talk back, (the barnyard, filled with goats, ducks, and chickens creates a perfect rehearsal arena). Now, you may not have a barnyard, but I am sure you can get creative in finding a place to practice in.

Now that you received some suggested ideas in practice, let’s talk about what you will do for your presentation, and it isn’t just about the words.  In my teenage years I performed on stage through music and later studied public speaking-communications in college, and today, continue to learn through research and practice.

Below are tips for creating an effective speech presentation.

My Top 10 Tips to Make an Impact, and Create Results...

1) Select the top three things you want to emphasize in your presentation.

2) Have a great opening to capture attention. Let them know what you are going to be talking about right up front.

3) Have stories that go with those topics.

4) Be passionate about your topics. People are sold more from emotion than data stats.

5) Don’t stand in front of a podium. Move around and look people in the eyes.

6) Don’t speak too fast. Make your words clear. Gage your voice so you can be heard. If you have passion, your voice will automatically change so it isn’t a mundane reading that will turn off listeners. Passion will bring the emotion needed. You will be remembered.

7) Pace yourself and use body movements and hand gestures.

8) Include some visuals, but not too many. Don’t read from PowerPoint slides. Let them know who the expert is covering the topics. Don’t hide behind the PowerPoint words and slides.

9) Be relaxed, and genuine, and deliver your message with confidence.

10) The magic behind an excellent presentation is Practice, Practice, Practice.

There are many other ways to increase your skills and confidence. There are college courses in communications and public speaking, there are books to read or listen to, and there is even a terrific global organization called Toastmasters International, which focuses on developing its members worldwide to be effective communicators and leaders...

Remember that YOU, Your Passion, Self Esteem, and Confidence are the most important factors.

You can have the very best speech with all the right words and visuals, but if your heart and soul are not into it, then it won’t be effective. Take the time to be remembered!

Practice, Practice, Practice.