Nine myths of public speaking and business presenting debunked

As a public speaker, you may have received countless pieces of advice on how to improve your skills. However, not all of them are helpful – some are outright myths. In this article, we’ll debunk nine common myths about public speaking and provide you with actionable tips to improve your performance.

Myth One: Always open with a joke

While it can be tempting to start your speech with a joke, it’s a risky move. Humor can be subjective, and what one person finds funny, another may not. Moreover, it’s difficult to gauge the mood of the audience, and a joke that falls flat can set a negative tone for the rest of your presentation. Instead, try to establish a connection with your audience by sharing a personal story or asking a thought-provoking question.

Myth Two: The audience will notice I’m nervous

It’s natural to feel nervous before a presentation, but the audience may not even notice. Don’t announce your nervousness to the audience, as this will only draw attention to it. Instead, take deep breaths, maintain eye contact, and speak confidently. If you’re worried about your hands shaking, hold a clicker or a pen to keep them still.

Myth Three: Wearing a new outfit will give confidence

While dressing appropriately is important, it’s more important to feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. If you’re not used to wearing formal attire, practice wearing it before the presentation to avoid any last-minute wardrobe malfunctions. Confidence comes from within, so focus on being prepared and delivering your message effectively.

Myth Four: I don’t give speeches or presentations

Even if you’re not a professional public speaker, you may still need to present your ideas to colleagues or clients. Take the time to prepare and practice your presentation, and treat it with the same level of professionalism as a formal speech.

Myth Five: The best speeches are committed to memory

While memorizing your speech word-for-word can be impressive, it can also be risky. If you forget a word or a sentence, it can throw you off track. Instead, speak from the heart and have a general outline of your presentation. Practice your delivery, but don’t focus on memorizing every word.

Myth Six: Notes will help you deliver a better presentation

Relying too much on notes can hinder your performance. Instead, use cue cards with single words or phrases to remind you of key points. Consult them only when necessary and avoid reading from them directly.

Myth Seven: Stand in one place

Standing rigidly in one spot throughout your presentation can make you look stiff and robotic. Instead, move purposefully around the stage, using gestures and body language to enhance your message. Some of the world's best speakers, such as Les Brown, Zig Ziglar, and Tony Robbins, are known for their dynamic, energetic stage presence. By watching and learning from these speakers, you can discover how movement can help you better connect with your audience.

Myth Eight: Don't speak with your hands

Using your hands and body language can help you better convey your message and connect with your audience. However, it's important to use your gestures wisely and avoid overdoing it. Open palms are particularly effective, as they can help you appear more approachable and trustworthy.

Myth Nine: Great presenters talk impromptu

While it's important to make your presentation appear natural and effortless, it's also essential to prepare and rehearse thoroughly beforehand. The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will be on stage. As Oscar-winning actor Sir Michael Caine once said, "Rehearsal is the work, performance is the relaxation." By putting in the time and effort to prepare, you can deliver a polished, professional presentation that will inspire and engage your audience.

In conclusion, there are many myths surrounding public speaking that can actually hinder your performance. By debunking these myths and following the tips provided, you can improve your public speaking skills and become a more effective and engaging presenter. With practice and persistence, you can overcome your fears and become a confident, successful public speaker.