Chapter 6, Page 2A speaker is comparable to an object kept under a magnifying glass for
constant scrutiny. He is in the spotlight; all eyes are on him. The smallest disharmony in his personal appearance will loom up large, like
the hill jutting out of the ocean. Do not hide behind a table.
People want to look at you as the 'whole man'. Refrain from twiddling your thumbs, playing with your clothes and avoid making nervous movements.
When you are seated in front of the audience, you should be
careful about how you sit. Feel the chair strike the back of your legs, keep your body erect from head to hips and keep your hands under perfect control. Once you stand up from the chair, stand still for a
while and control yourself physically to get the best posture.
Once you reach the podium, stand erect by distributing your weight equally on both the legs. Do not hold onto the podium or mike for support.
Do not lean on the podium. The most important thing is, do not be in a hurry to begin the speech. Take a deep breath. Look over your audience for a moment.
If there is a noise or disturbance, pause until
it is quiet. Hold your chest high, look at the audience and begin your speech. Use your hands for natural gestures when the urge makes itself felt. Otherwise allow them to fall naturally to your sides.
Next important aspect is gesture. This is not a thing to be put on at will, like a bush shirt. Gesture is an outward expression of inward feelings. Do not repeat the same gesture as it will become
monotonous. Do not make short, jerky movements. Do not end your gesture too quickly.
In front of the audience, make only the gestures that come to you naturally. But, while practicing, force yourself to
use gestures. This would stimulate you to get the gestures unsought.
Please remember that the most important rule in public speaking is to be free, frank and forceful; be clear, candid, convincing and
confident; be new and novel. Say something, which no body has said.Stand up with full confidence and deliver the speech. You will do very well.
