Public Speaking

See also theodorosploumis/art-of-presentation.

How to start a speech

With a story (about you or another person). Similar to a fairy tale.
With a "shocking fact" or a "big idea" (you or other people may have).
With a question everyone is interested to.
With a joke, a surprise, an unexpected move or question etc.

Using your body

Use your hands (gestures) while talking to chop, show, give, prevent/stop.
Use your eyes.
Palms should be up (show the sky).
Never point to the audience (using your finger).
Walking on the room. Move around the center not too away from the center, not behind of the decks. Move between the seats.

Several tips

It's all about the audience (they should be the center of the speech, not the presenter).
Tell real stories...
Demonstrate using things or objects.
Engage with the audience (eg ask direct questions).
Change the tone or volume of your voice.
Use speaking pauses when necessary.
Use situational awareness (bold, tone, silence, audacity etc).
Close your speech with the same topic (story, big idea, outcome, call to action etc) you started with.

Resources