How Can I Bring A Lecture To Life?

If, as you deliver the lecture, you keep your mind on the subject you worked hard on—not on yourself—this will dispel a lot of nervousness and audience fear. Make up your mind that, even though you may feel weak, your message will be powerful.

If you believe in your material and are filled with it, you naturally will have conviction—a heartfelt sincerity that people sense and trust. By concentrating on your information, your delivery ought not to lose emotional impact. To the contrary, you should let your feelings emanate right out of the subject itself; then your emotions, gestures and bearing will be genuine. You will appear dedicated and will be convincing. You will hold your audience. You will motivate people.

On the other hand, if you are overly concerned with your attire, the impression you are making or your "style," it will show in your presentation. It will distract and obscure.

Furthermore, a definite message aids delivery by giving you better control of your timing. Thus you will not be rambling on too long, as many speakers do. Practice out loud, checking your timing. Oral practice may seem silly, but you will be amazed at what it will do for your confidence and time control.