Six Quick Tips For Introvert Speakers

Whether it be a simple presentation before a few people or a formal speech to a roomful of hundreds, the very thought of talking publicly can make people nervous. For introverts, the dread can be even worse. Here are six quick tips for introverts and even extroverts to help make every speaking opportunity a triumph.

1. Make contact with someone in your audience before your talk.

Get to your location early and make sure that you talk to at least one person that will be in your audience. Be sure to get their name and why they are there to listen to you. Then, during your talk, you can mention them as a way to connect with your audience. It will also help to make you more comfortable because you can speak directly to this person. A good way to mention them is to say something like, "As Jim was saying to me before we started today, your organization can be proud of…"

2.Begin with a question.

The first moments of any talk are critical. You have to engage the audience and make them feel that their time will be well spent. The best way to do this is to ask a question right off the bat. All the great speakers do this and so should you. It doesn't really matter what the question is but the more relevant you can make it to your subject the better. If appropriate you can even ask an audience member or two for their answers. That engages the audience and sets a participatory tone for your presentation.

3. Make people move.

When you make people move you bring them into your presentation both physically and mentally. They don't have to stand up, but at least get them to raise their hands, say "hello" to the person next to them, shake hands, stretch or whatever might be appropriate. Never let an audience sit without doing anything. They will soon be fidgeting and taking mental trips to their dream vacation locales. Engage them before they board their imaginary flights.

4. Move yourself.

Thanks to wireless microphone technology, there is no reason for a speaker to hide behind a lectern as they make a presentation. In fact, the best speakers wade into their audience and break down any barrier between presenter and listener. But even if you need to stay close to a stationary microphone or speaking notes, you can still move to either side of the lectern or use your hands to create motion. You will keep your listeners engaged as they follow your movements and an engaged audience is an attentive audience.

5. Tell a story.

We all love stories that put a human face on our subject, no matter how complex or difficult. The story can be about yourself, your family or your colleagues. It doesn't have to be original, but if you borrow it, be sure you give it attribution. It doesn't hurt if it is humorous depending upon your subject. Have some fun with your audience. If you are the least bit anxious this can help make you feel more comfortable while entertaining your listeners.

6. End with a question.

How you finish your presentation can have a lasting effect on the opinions your listeners take away from it. I've found that ending with a question can be a great way to sum up while at the same time reiterating the most important point of a talk. It can be as simple as, "Now can anyone look at (my subject matter) in the same way after today?" or "Do you think you have a better understanding of (my subject matter)?

Following these six tips will help you give a more effective and enjoyable speech on any occasion, even if you consider yourself an introvert.

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