Public speaking is the act of performing a speech to an audience, in-person or remote, in a structured manner, with the purpose of transmitting information, telling a story, being entertaining, persuading or motivating people to act, or some combination of those objectives. There are many aspects to public speaking, including choosing a topic or responding to the theme of a commissioned request; researching; implementing excellent writing skills; being aware of the anticipated composition of the target audience; and any other related elements necessary to prepare for the presentation.
The delivery of the speech includes the speaker’s ability to develop, demonstrate, and maintain credibility and authority over the subject matter; the speaker’s use of facts to support the presented information; the speaker’s ability to earn emotional trust and acceptance with the audience; and the speaker’s ability to allow the audience to use logic and deduction to decide on how to receive and interpret the presented information. It is also vital for the speaker to demonstrate meaningful eye-contact with the audience; to speak with respect, without condescension; to be articulate, with appropriate inflection and volume; and to be personable. In addition, public speaking includes the speaker’s ability to effectively respond to questions and observations from the audience and to effectively facilitate related discussions.
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