to take us forward to what we can expect to see in the near future. The ending is called the close, with two parts, first a summary of what you’ve discussed or revealed, and then a call for action or agreement. Without the latter, you can usually expect that nothing will result from your hard work in crafting the message. If you don’t ask for something, nothing happens. Next, we rely on the art or theater of public speaking, to help you capture and keep attention. One of the biggest distractors can be your hands, if they take on their own life. Try not to grip the sides of the podium, if you’re using one. Instead, gently rest them on top and take them out to use as needed. Stand up straight with your legs shoulder length apart, and your arms at your side, or folded together no lower than your waist, and use when needed. Never point a finger at anyone! Use an entire hand to wave in a certain direction. Wear colors that are easy to see but not distracting. I don’t recommend all black, all white or big patterns for that reason. To achieve your best performance, always practice out of order, in pieces, at least nine or 10 times. That is, do your close, then a main point, your opening, and another point, until you’re comfortable with each piece, and then altogether. Try varying your voice, volume, excitement, and smile. Be sure and look around the room in a clockwise manner if you’re right-handed. Lefties seem to prefer counterclockwise. And finally, anticipate and prepare for what I call the law of averages when speaking. Things don’t always go in the direction you planned or want. From more than three decades of speaking, I recommend that you always bring an extra outfit, medication and a copy of your slides or notes, just in case. To recap, give yourself time to plan and prepare your message, trying out one of the body formats, and openings and closes to match your goals and vision. Always practice aloud, out of order, and be aware of where your hands are traveling! And be ready for the unexpected with back up materials. Don’t allow the unplanned to trip you up. Look forward to well-earned applause and the other rewards that come with great speaking. ANNE B. FREEDMAN is CEO of Speakout LLC, and has been an executive speaking and leadership communication coach for decades and is based in Miami, Florida. A former journalist, her clients include c-level executives, hospitals, universities, innovative and international companies. She is a member of the Enterprising Women Advisory Board. Connect and learn more at www.speakoutinc.com. enterprising Women 71
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