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Public Speaking the top 10 Mistakes Speakers make

July 5, 2009

Public Speaking Tips

Whenever you’re presenting, you’re going to make mistakes. Sometimes the mistakes you make on the platform result from commonly held myths. At other times, mistakes might stem from ignorance or inexperience. Whatever the case, here are some of the most common mistakes speakers make.

1. Lack of preparation

If you’re unprepared as a speaker, it shows. You must take the time to know your topic and to rehearse your presentation until you’re comfortable with it. Practice what you are going to say out loud and know how long it will take you.  

2. Speaking too long

Starting and ending your presentation late shows a lack of respect for the audience. Don’t expect the audience to wait for you. Allow time to get to the presentation early, and know how to cut and summarize the presentation if you sense you’re running out of time.

3. Not knowing the audience

One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a presenter is not meeting the need of your audience. If you’re giving the same speech to different groups, tailor it for each audience.

4. Projecting the wrong image

This is an instant credibility killer, and it’s related to mistake. A flashy outfit will not work if you’re speaking to bankers. A slick, “big city” style doesn’t do it for farmers. Study the audience ahead of time and dress and present appropriately.

5. Using visual aids ineffectively

If you fumble with visual aids, you’ll eventually lose credibility. Visuals should support and enhance the presentation, not take it over. Similarly, equipment that malfunctions can be disastrous to the speech. Have a backup plan if your equipment fails i.e. a white board or printouts.

6. Including too much material/Starting with detail

More is better, right? Not really. You can overwhelm the audience with too much data.Information overlaod is big mistake, give them a shorter version. If you do, you’ll make your points more easily and be more memorable.

7. Using inappropriate humour

Audiences are politically sensitive. One joke can put your audience completely off. Never tell off-colour jokes. If you want to make fun of somebody, let it be you.

8. Speaking in a monotone

Audience members will be bored if you’re a monotone speaker. Put some energy and passion in your word that will make your presentation alive.

9. Speaker-centred/No relationship with the audience

To be effective as a speaker, you must connect with your audience. If you’re self-absorbed and you simply recite a speech, you’ll soon be talking in a vacuum. No one will be listening. Too many presenters start with their agenda and then wonder why they don’t get the desired response from the audience. Begin your presentation from the listener’s point of view and continue to address what’s important to them.

10. Offering weak evidence

Some speakers don’t support ideas without solid data or evidence. After you made a point give some evidence to support your point. How? By including statistics, personal stories, examples, analogies, demonstrations, pictures, testimonials, conceptual models, and historical data.

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