How to Be a Better Orator

Last Updated: February 6, 2020 Approved

Rhetoric is one of the oldest and most powerful tools a person can use to sway an audience, effect change, build up, or tear down. Using it however, can be a challenge. At some point, you're going to be called on to give a speech, at a wedding, at a party, or running for some office. Whatever it is, it's important to speak well.

Steps

1
Be confident, no one wants to listen to a guy who is nervous or doesn't seem to believe what he's saying.
2
Believe what you're saying, if you don't no one will.

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3
Prepare your speech whenever possible, ahead of time, and read through it, out loud at least seven times before you give it.
4
Create a stage persona, not to go crazy or dress weird, but it's best to act much differently on stage than you do in private company, on stage you rule, everyone must listen to you, and you can be whoever you want.
5
Create a good appearance, dress nicely, keep yourself clean, and avoid outrageous hairstyles, makeup or facial hair.
6
Speak off of a deep breath, take in a deep breath, and then use it to begin speaking, project, don't shout, don't fire your words like a cannon, rather lob them like a catapult.
7
Breathe, it's very important to breathe, if you don't get enough breath, you'll speed up, and even pass out.
8
Make good eye contact, this takes three forms; direct, broad sweeping, and gazing into the distance.
9
Be careful with your posture, stand up straight, don't slouch, don't put your hands in your pockets, fidget, or play with the lectern.

Community Q&A

Question

Is voice modulation required?

Anonymous queen

Community Answer

Yes. Voice modulation plays a very important role; it gives "life" to your speech. Without voice modulation, a speech sounds dull and boring.
Question

How do I create a stage persona?

Community Answer

In acting this is more complicated, but for speeches and presentation you should simply play up your natural tendencies. If you are naturally monotone or boring, say very little, very well. A slightly sardonic tone can be helpful for those who drone. If you are exuberant, make sure you bring the audience with you with your gestures and expressions. If you are precise, use silence to punctuate your accuracy. Your physicality will depend on the environment and need. If you are awkward but have to move a great deal, don't waste movements, but make the movements you do large and definitive. If you are comfortable with motion, feel free to move, but don't become a harlequin or mime.
Question

Why do I need to know the technique of speaking in english?

Community Answer

Speaking in English is important if you are in an English-speaking country or plan on doing international business.

Warnings

Don't apologize, even if you mess up, the audience is merciless, they won't care, just carry on if you can, or if you need to go back, say 'excuse me' not 'sorry'

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Breathe, but don't gasp or pant

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Be brief, don't get too wordy, and remember to alter your tone, volume and inflection.

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Make sure your level of drama/volume is appropriate to the situation

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