Pressing Issues by Randy Hines
Pressing Issues
Don’t Make Me Speak in Public
by Randy Hines
Mississippi reporters and editors are word specialists. Consider some of the names used to describe your occupation—journalists, columnists, writers, wordsmiths, authors, scribes. Some of you may have entered the profession because you prefer to do your talking with the printed product. Others may be outgoing and enjoy public interaction.
But whatever side you’re on, speaking in public is not something most Mississippi journalists—or others—particularly enjoy. According to several studies, in fact, speaking before others ranks as the number one fear facing Americans.
Such research is what prompted Jerry Seinfeld to banter: “So if you’re going to a funeral, you’re better off being in the casket than giving the eulogy.”
Even those who frequently speak in public with what appears to be the greatest of ease may not have a lot of natural talent.
Speech anxiety can never be eliminated. But it can be kept under control. In fact, experts think stage fright can help you perform better. It keeps you alert and mentally on your toes—similar to an actor before a performance.
Since Mississippi newspapers want to identify with their readers and develop brand identification, it’s only natural that getting employees out in front of audiences is a necessity.
Despite what you may have heard about speeches, you’re allowed to use notes. In fact, having them in front of you will probably make you less nervous. Nevertheless, practice your speech out load several times before its delivery. Knowing your material will help you relax. A major reason for the rehearsal is to spot tongue twisters that somehow hide while on the page.
Sure, you may still be sweating like a bull rider in the July rodeo, but the audience won’t notice. They are just happy you are speaking instead of them.
If you have the time, try to make sure any equipment you’ll need is working. That could include projectors, computers and microphones. But if something’s not working, do your best to deliver your message, even without the wonderful PowerPoint presentation you prepared. And if the PowerPoint is your forte, try to avoid looking at the screen rather than your audience.
Being in a panic will not help you minimize anxiety. So arrive early and relax. Find out who will introduce you and give that person your short bio. It’s better for you to write that yourself so you control the topic and the timing.
Since you’re already the expert writer, don’t forget those basics when you compose your speech. Use short words, short sentences and informal language. Remember, this time you’re writing for the ears, not the eyes. So keep the flow of words simple to understand.
When you get asked to speak, determine who your audience will be. That helps you visualize the people in your audience as you write your speech. I once was told I would be talking to business executives. Unfortunately, the program coordinator forgot to tell me that they were all retired. My prepared speech on the latest business communication techniques for the office would have fallen on deaf ears.
You should also find out about the length of your speech. Many seminaries today are training future clergy to keep sermons to 20 to 25 minutes long. It’s always better to have your audience wanting more than to be looking at their watches.
To capture their attention from the start—otherwise you’ve already lost them—open with a quotation, anecdote or humorous story. Be careful of jokes, however. They can backfire and get you and your newspaper in trouble. Better to make yourself the butt of the tale than your publisher, an audience member or the sponsoring organization.
Many newspapers have discovered the value of having its own speakers bureau. People throughout the publication—advertising, circulation, production and editorial—can share their vocation and hobbies with the community. But make sure your paper promotes it diligently throughout the region. You can do that with house ads in the paper, mailings, a brochure and your paper’s Web site.
Who knows? Maybe next July 4 you’ll be volunteering to speak at a community event.
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Dr. Randy Hines teaches in the Department of Communications at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Pa. He can be reached for workshops at randyhinesapr@yahoo.com or (570) 372-4079.