Whether you lack public speaking confidence and want to know how to get it, or you’re comfortable with public speaking and just want to brush up on your presentation, there’s plenty in the blogosphere for you. to help. Public speaking blogs range from those focusing on speech writing to interpersonal communication, vocal delivery, or impact – all with the basic principle that presenting is a learned skill that we can all improve upon. We pick six of the most useful blogs to unleash your vocal potential.
TALK ABOUT THE PRESENTATION
Most public speaking tips are written by extroverts – and don’t always work for those who are introverted,” says New Zealand performance coach Olivia Mitchell in her Speaking about Presenting blog. The difference, she says, is that extroverts work well in highly stimulating environments and like to talk. Introverts, however, work best in less stimulating environments – and when an environment is too stimulating, it impacts their short-term memory.
Over the years of being a reluctant introverted presenter herself, she has honed the mindset needed to become a confident and engaging motivational speaker. Mitchell insists that preparation is the key to success – and his advice on the blog falls into three camps; the fear of public speaking (Courage), the nuts and bolts of planning a speech (Clarity) and delivering it (Communication), with practical advice and strategies to implement immediately.
SPEAK AND SHINE
Shola Kaye knows how to engage an audience. Her background in cabaret, stand-up comedy and television presenting has given her a key understanding of how to present effectively and connect with an audience – and she brings that experience to the table in her energetic blog Speak Up and Shine. Its goal: to help people conquer their fears, engage and “be proud” in front of an audience, with messages that focus as much on those who have the “gift of small talk” as on introverts who don’t appreciate not the spotlights. The content is a combination of video and text on topics that are often a bit more slanted and thought-provoking than many other stand-up and speaking blogs. If you’ve ever wondered “What you should never do right after a public speaking opportunity” or why “Workshops are the new speeches”, then Kaye is here to explain.
DIRTY AND QUICK TIPS / THE PUBLIC SPEAKER
Does exactly what it says on the tin: If you’re looking for a quick fix of simple tools and tips to up your presentation game, then this handy blog is a good place to start. Hosted by trainer Lisa B Marshall with guest articles from – and interviews with – other experts, the focus here is on practical, science-based advice at the intersection of leadership, psychology, and communication. The blog, which contains text and audio content, takes a holistic perspective on what makes a good inspirational speaker; everything from physiology to advanced psychology is covered – plus how to hack them if you need to. There are also plenty of other articles on general communication topics, to help you become more confident and competent in all your day-to-day interactions – not just those in front of hundreds of people.
KATE’S VOICE
31 Days to Harness the Power of Your Voice Impact, Kate Peters’ advice. And wisdom was also shared with Silicon Valley tech executives and TED speakers. Like her book. Her Kate’s Voice blog assumes that you already have an impact on others with your voice, but the impact you are having may not be the one you want to have. For Peters, good communication is about clarity, confidence, and practice. As the tagline tells that it is a blog about voices: utilizing them, listen to them, freeing them. The messages are an engaging mix of anecdotes, discussion and practical advice. And encompass general vocal impact skills as well as those particularly useful for public speaking.
THE ACCIDENTAL COMMUNICATOR
American public speaking coach Dr. Jim Anderson writes with acerbic humor in The Accidental Communicator – and the breadth of knowledge. He has gained from working with speakers and audiences for over 25 years” Creating. And delivering speeches that connect with an audience and cause change isn’t a matter of luck. It’s a science,” insists Anderson. Who will succinctly explain why your rambling speech, confusing jargon. Or cluttered PowerPoint slide hinders your communication – and what you can do about it.
He’s all about what’s been tried and tested on the road. With techniques and tools he’s used in some of the most major corporations of the world. As such, its posts provide concise, succinct information that fits into the larger picture. Rather than a philosophical or anecdotal assessment of the art of public speaking.
ETHOS 3
Presentation consultancy Ethos 3 has worked with executives from some of America’s biggest brands to help. Them hone their public speaking skills – and its fresh, modern-looking blog is just as dynamic. With an active publishing schedule and lively energy. The posts cover everything from using visual aids in your speech to how best to use your microphone. As well as the more psychological and physical aspects of successful public speaking. One big plus is the blog’s user-friendly layout. With clear sections that include the science and technology of presentation as well. As a presentation skills podcast so you can find what you need quickly. and easily. There’s even a handy Presentation Hacks channel for when you need a quick fix.