You are now at the point where you know what group you are speaking to; you understand their specifics and the context in which you will be speaking.
You have also well-defined the Goal/Goals of your public speech and you know what form it will take.
Therefore, the issue of selecting topics, creating a time-defined plan, and selecting any supporting tools now arises.
NOTE! In the case of speeches to which you are invited, such as a panel, discussion, or debate – it is important to learn as much as possible from the organizers.
Then, prepare and think carefully about the substantive scopes that you will present.
Think about the arguments and important facts that you want to defend or that you will highlight.
Answer the question:
✅ How do you want to be remembered after this event?
In the case of speeches, lectures, or presentations, it is very important that you make a time-defined plan for your speech!
Find out how much time you have and stick to it when planning and then when giving your speech.
People who don’t stick to the time and take up other people’s speaking time are not very professional. It is important that you speak on topic, to the point, and don’t stretch the threads too much, because people remember the parts that stirred emotions in them or somehow touched their imagination. So, telling examples or intelligent jokes is welcome if there is room for them.
Remember! 🙂 MEMORY = IMAGE + ACTION + EMOTIONS
Therefore, extending boring speeches can only arouse anger and impatience… and you don’t want to be remembered like that. Right?
How to make a speech plan? Here’s a short outline:
Title: ….
Time frame: ….
- Introduction – introducing yourself, the purpose of the speech, a general outline.
- Development – introducing the topics, along with examples, arguments, anecdotes.
- Listing the order of topics.
- Conclusion – summary, reminder of the purpose, and a punch line that gets people.
Write down what tools you will need. It could be a power point presentation, folders, photos, or some specific props.
If you are preparing a formal speech, write it out in its entirety so that you have it with you and you can look at it if necessary.
Generally, I recommend having notes, even if you are very well prepared. If something throws you off, notes allow you to return to the topic.
👉 To sum this chapter up, the most important thing is to have a well-defined goal and understand the recipients of your public speaking. This will make it much easier for you to choose topics, examples, and plan your entire speech. Of course, it is also necessary to know the topic you are talking about. It is very important to remember that through your speeches you build your public image and social capital. Therefore, do not leave them in the hands of chance, but always answer the questions contained in this chapter. They will not take you much time and they will allow you to approach public speaking more consciously. Also, remember that not everything is worth taking part in. You have the right not to appear where it may be disadvantageous for you or conflict with your values.