 Speech preparation is the most important element to a successful

presentation,

It is also the best way to reduce

nervousness and combat fear.

  This may seem like an easy task, but there are infinite speaking topics. How do you choose the right one?

Your topic leads to your core message

— the entire presentation aims to deliver this core message to your audience.

   our speech needs structure. Without structure, your audience will either wonder what your core message is or they will lose interest in you entirely.

Sadly, this step is often skipped to “save time.”

A planned outline is vital.

    Speech writing is an iterative process which begins with your first draft. Once the first draft is created, speech writing involves iteratively massaging your speech into its most effective form. Edit your speech for focus, clarity, concision, continuity, variety and impact.

Remember your speech should be written for the ear and you should adopt it so it does not sound like an essay or a legal document.

 At this stage, the words are ready, but that’s all you have — words. A

presentation is not read by the audience; it is listened to and watched.

   Great speakers seem natural when they speak, almost as though they are speaking the words for the first time. Nothing could be more wrong. Rehearsing your speech makes you a master of the content. Asking for feedback and acting on it gives you confidence that your presentation will be a success.

  This could be the first step in preparing for your next speech.

After you’ve delivered your speech,

examine your performance objectively. This will solidify lessons learned as you prepare for your next speech challenge.