Description
So what makes one person totally absorbing and another excruciat- ingly boring? The answer is not a simple one. There is no one simple formula for learning the skills of speaking in public or delivering a paper in an interesting way. Some people seem to be able to do it effortlessly, others struggle. However, there are techniques which everyone can learn, and some common pitfalls to avoid.
Understanding the psychology of your audience is the first step. If you don't understand what it is they want to hear you are wasting your time. (Chapter 3). Meticulous preparation and structuring is vital (Chapter 4). Then there is the question of how to put it across. Some people, such as the botanist David Bellamy, have a gift for making a boring subject riveting. This book will give you exercises to practise your vocal skills (Chapter 6). The visual aspect of communication - eye contact, body language, visual aids - is equally important (Chapters 7 and 8). Then there are techniques for overcoming nerves using breathing and visualisation (Chapter 9). And finally, you will be getting tips on what to do on the day, how to think on your feet, and how to react if you are invited to appear on radio or television.
