8 Practice

Practicing is an essential part of the speech process. Practicing your speech aloud, rather than just in your mind, is imperative. You need to rehearse listening to your own voice and experience the audible flow of your words.

A. Practice with an Audience

You can recruit a trial audience before your main presentation. This can consist of family, friends, and coworkers. They may be able to offer suggestions to enhance your presentation.

B. Practice Using a Mirror

Practicing in front of a mirror will give you a visual picture of your delivery and help you to adjust your hand gestures, body movements, and facial expressions.

C. Practice for Flow

Practicing your speech out loud will give you an indication of whether your words flow easily or if you need to adjust awkward phrasing or sentence structure.

D. Avoid Rehearsing Memorization

Trust that you will be able to articulate your message effectively when the time comes. A genuine, naturally delivered speech will be much more effective than a perfectly memorized, stiff presentation.