Insider Tips 33

At some point in your public relations career, you may have to prepare/deliver a speech or, more likely, coach someone else. Here are a few tips to on how to write and give a clear and effective speech.

There are some obvious, and some not-so-obvious, questions to ask when requested to prepare a speech. Begin with the basics, such as:

> Length of speech?
> Subject?
> Where?
> When?
> What do the organizers want the speech to convey to the    audience?
> What do you (or your client) want to convey?

A few other points you'll need to consider are.

> Will media be there?
> What is the anticipated size and make up of the    audience?
> Will the event be advertised to the general public in any    way?
> Will there be other speakers? If so, where are you ( or    your client ) situated in the line-up of speakers, and who    will be speaking before and after?
> Will there be a Q&A period following the speech(es)?
> Do you need to provide handouts for the audience?
> What are the audio/visual requirements? And are the    majority of speakers using a power point or similar    presentation?
> Will there be a rehearsal before the official event? If so,    when is it scheduled?
> Is the speaking engagement accompanied by a reception,    either before or after?
> Will the event be taped or filmed for the record?

The next step is to sit down, get all your materials and information together and proceed to piece it all together to form a smooth and articulate speech. Remember the idea of leading with a joke? Forget it. Unless the person delivering the speech is extremely funny and has impeccable timing, it probably won't go over as well as you'd like.

The first issue, once you understand the message(s) and the audience, is to determine the key points. Try to limit yourself to two or three key points that will clearly define and explain the issue.

Whatever your topic, in the end, your speech should offer both a solution and a straightforward summary explaining the benefits of your solution. The audience should leave the event feeling that they've learned something and/or have something to think about.

Don't forget to rehearse your speech several times before the presentation. You can start off rehearsing alone but it will help to give yourself some time to run through it in front of a live audience. Family members or co-workers can be very helpful. Ask them to time your speech and to let you know if you're speaking too quickly/slowly or if you're mumbling or fidgeting unconsciously.

Contact Davidson Communications for any help you may need in writing and releasing news or statements, and for appropriate follow-up.