Public speaking can be daunting, but with the right techniques, it’s possible to deliver powerful and confident presentations. In this article, I share key strategies based on common questions I’ve received over the years as a presentation coach. These tips will help you elevate your presentation presence and speak with confidence.

How to Use Notes Effectively

One of the most frequently asked questions is how to use notes during a presentation without breaking your connection with the audience. Here’s how to do it right:

Keep it Simple: Use small, manageable notes. Instead of holding large sheets like A4 paper, opt for smaller, more discreet A5 paper or index cards. Avoid long paragraphs; instead, summarize key points into bullet points to guide you through your speech.

Practice: Familiarize yourself with your notes well in advance. The more you practice, the less you’ll need to rely on them. This ensures you don’t end up reading directly from the paper, which can reduce your credibility as a speaker.

Body Language Matters: Hold your notes in one hand and use the other for expressive movements. Open palms, upright posture, and purposeful gestures will make you look confident and engaging.

Handling the Microphone Properly

Another common challenge is managing the microphone while maintaining strong body language and vocal variety. Here’s what to keep in mind:

The Thumb Rule: Hold the microphone about a thumb’s distance from your mouth to ensure your voice is clear and audible. Many speakers make the mistake of holding the mic too far away or at an odd angle, which affects sound quality.

Test the Equipment: Arrive early at the venue and test the microphone. Familiarizing yourself with it beforehand ensures there are no surprises during your presentation. Make sure the mic is properly positioned, and adjust it as needed.

Move with the Mic: When you move during your presentation, take the microphone with you. Don’t leave it behind or point it in different directions—your audience needs to hear every word clearly.

Purposeful Body Movement

One of the most powerful tools in public speaking is body movement. However, it must be used purposefully to enhance your message rather than distract from it.

Move with Intention: Avoid nervous pacing, which can signal discomfort to your audience. Instead, move deliberately in sync with your speech. For example, when transitioning from one point to another, move to a different spot on the stage.

Control Your Energy: Movement helps manage the physical symptoms of anxiety, like increased heart rate. Purposeful movement, aligned with your message, also helps keep your nerves in check and engages your audience.

Presentation Presence: Combining it All

To truly master your presentation, it’s crucial to combine these strategies. Summarize your notes, handle the microphone confidently, and use purposeful movement to create a dynamic presence on stage. Each element contributes to a more engaging and credible performance.

Engage and Improve

Finally, remember that public speaking is a skill you can continually improve. I encourage you to try these tips in your next presentation and see the difference they make. Share your feedback or questions, and let’s learn together! You can also subscribe to my newsletter or join one of my master classes to delve deeper into public speaking techniques.

By applying these practical strategies, you’ll not only improve your public speaking skills but also step into the spotlight with confidence and ease. Keep practicing, stay focused, and don’t be afraid to share your voice with the world.Feel free to connect with me for more tips or to sign up for a workshop. Let’s continue the journey toward mastering public speaking together!