Think of a speaker one has heard and seen. What are the reasons for liking this speaker? Is it their confidence, appearance, mastery of the language? All of these answers are correct. A good speaker has a clear voice and uses words that are easy to understand. A good speaker also uses appropriate facial expressions and gestures. Moreover, speakers are liked when they speak directly to the audience, maintaining eye contact with the listeners. These speakers also move on the stage with confidence, showing mastery of public communication.
A speaker’s message must be conveyed to the listeners. This is the second half of speech communication: the delivery of the speech. How does one deliver a speech effectively? Several principles must be followed, as outlined below.
First Principle: Articulation
When a speaker’s words cannot be understood because of poor articulation, the speech might as well not have been delivered at all. Word choice and grammatical correctness are necessary in writing the speech, but clear articulation in pronouncing the words and speaking with precise diction effectively transmits the speaker’s message. Knowing the correct way to pronounce words, whether familiar or unfamiliar, is crucial. Proper breathing techniques and correct sound formation contribute to efficient articulation.
(Were the speakers in the video/film articulate in their speech? Were they understandable?)
Second Principle: Modulation
Some voices are pleasant and soothing, while others sound flat, high-pitched, or screechy. People like to listen to voices that are well-modulated, which means having the ability to adjust or manipulate the resonance and tone quality. A microphone requires even more modulation, as amplifiers will further resonate voices. With or without a microphone, voices should not bombard the listeners’ ears. If the speaker’s voice is modulated, listeners will pay attention. The speaker’s words will be heard clearly, and the message will be conveyed effectively.
(Were the speakers’ voices modulated? Was it easy to listen to them?)
Third Principle: Stage Presence
Stage presence is the ability of a speaker to “own” the stage, filling the space and projecting their personality to the audience. Stage fright, often seen as the top fear in public speaking, stands opposite to stage presence. Instead of trying to eliminate stage fright (which is unlikely), a speaker can channel that energy to become engaging, enthusiastic, and confident, speaking clearly and moving comfortably on stage. No one is immune from stage fright; some people simply manage it better, creating what we recognize as stage presence.
(Did the speakers show stage presence? What contributed to it?)
Fourth Principle: Facial Expressions, Gestures, and Movement
An effective speech is not only about word choice and pronunciation. Nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, gestures, and movement, reinforces, clarifies, and complements the message. Without these nonverbal elements, a speaker may come across as boring, with flat delivery and an unemotional voice. Facial expressions should change with the content of the speech, gestures should emphasize key points, and movement should bring the speech closer to the audience. Movement should also guide the audience, keeping them engaged with each word.
(Did the speakers use nonverbal communication? Was it too much or too little?)
Fifth Principle: Audience Rapport
Establishing a connection with the listeners often begins with an audience analysis. Using this information, one can write a speech that appeals to the audience. This data also informs the delivery, enabling a speaker to connect with the audience on a deeper level.
(How did the speakers establish rapport with their audience? Did it work?)
