Public Speaking Tips

Hey guys! So we have all the workshops out the way, which means it’s time to start focusing on the most exciting part of the conference…SPEAKING! We have all seen politicians which great ideas go down in flames because they just can’t seem to convey their messages. As many of you know, there is an art to speaking. An art that can greatly help you succeed in this MMUN Conference and for the rest of your life.

So here are some tips and links to get you started on the journey (provided by Carthage College).

1: Always observe “decorum” (polite) when speaking. For example, titles should always be used when addressing a chair or another candidate.

2: Know what you need to say before you start talking. Some delegates choose to use their position paper for opening speeches, while others like to simply note key points.

3: Be confident. As a delegate you want everyone to believe you know EVERYTHING THERE IS TO KNOW about your country. While we all know this is unlikely, doing as much research as possible before the conference and speaking as if you are undoubtedly right with everything you say, can create the “illusion” that you are the supreme master when it becomes your turn to speak.

4: Be clear. This simply means having notes in front of you and speaking s…l…o…w... l…y. If you know there are large words in your speech, practice them beforehand so you don’t fumble over the word and leave the audience confused and distracted.

5. Be Concise. It’s important to get your points across as firmly as possible and not blabber on about nonsense. This makes you sound like you don’t know what you are talking about and can also leave the audience confused about what your point actually is.

6. Be Constructive. Try to have an introduction, body and a conclusion in your speech. Make your points heard in the beginning, review them in the middle, and repeat them once more at the end.

7. Pay attention to body language. The body language of a speaker can engage you so much you think you are listening to the President, or make you so uncomfortable, you forget to listen to anything being said. Try make eye-contact with as many people as possible, but don’t start staring too long at one person. Be engaging with hand gestures, but don’t look like you’re trying to swat fly. Speak loudly enough for everyone to hear you, but try not to scream. All these minor details can make and break a speech. Also, try not to slouch, bounce on one leg, cross your arms…this can all be seen as unprofessional.

8. Try not to say “uh…” Speech fillers have changed throughout the decades, going from “you know” to “uh…” and “like”. This is made more difficult to avoid when speaking in a second language. It is important to speak slowly so that your mouth doesn’t start making up words while you’re trying to recall what to say next.

9. Breathe. That’s it. Just remember to breathe deeply. This will help pace you and calm nerves if you have them.

For more tips, can check out this great Youtube video channel called “Watchwellcast” which covers how to be a more confident public speaker:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tShavGuo0_E

Remember, the internet is a great tool for EVERYTHING! Go exploring and you should be ready to go.

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