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Visualize, prepare, practice, and perfect: these are the four cornerstones that are essential to effective public speaking.

Visualize

Visualize yourself speaking to hundreds of clients — whether it is at the yearly art exhibition, charity gala, or award evening. Keep in mind that public speaking is an aid to your business and personal development. You must also believe in yourself and your own expertise.

Prepare

Study Toastmasters manuals and read as many books on the subject of public speaking as you can. (See the Appendix for suggested reading.) You should also look up books on body language, humor, entertainment, education, and assertiveness/self-improvement. (Attending courses in the latter is also a good idea.) These topics will help you in the many avenues of business: You will learn to interact more effectively with those around you as well as gain more confidence figuring out what your clients want and need. Forgo TV or your recreational time for self-development — you are investing in your future!

Practice

Prepare your speeches thoroughly and practice them in front of your family members and even a mirror. Give it your best. Practicing helps even acutely shy people overcome their stuttering and blushing.

Try to follow these tips in order to be completely prepared:

• Be interactive; take the initiative to address the audience.

• Act confident by smiling, and vary the tone of your voice. Perform like you are enjoying yourself and the crowd will love it.

• Learn to “read” your audience. This will give you a tremendous boost and will become easier as you gain experience.

Perfect

The following tips will help you perfect your public speaking skills:

• Believe in yourself. You have information others will learn from and they will respect your opinion.

• Learn to push yourself out of your comfort zone.

• Do not second-guess yourself; follow your instincts and do what feels right. You know yourself best.