Toastmasters International - Edmonton & Area

Information about public speaking, confidence in speaking and effective communication

Tips for Speakers

"If you talk to a man in the language he understands, that goes to his head.  If you talk to him in his language, that goes to his heart".         - Nelson Mandela

Do you need to know:

  • how to overcome your fear of speaking in public
  • how to introduce a speaker
  • how to MC an event
  • how to present a Toast?

Public speaking and communication can be enhanced with knowledge of basic principles and etiquette. I have written and collected articles about various aspects of public speaking and training.  I hope this information will be of interest and use to you.

Some of the material is adapted from Toastmasters International manuals.  Other material I have developed. The material that I have authored represents my observations, opinions and experience.  Other articles are from fellow Toastmasters and others who have submitted material for inclusion.   I hope you find the topics useful and that they inspire you to polish your communication skills.

Basic information

"The difference between the almost right word and the right word is really a large matter - it's the difference between the lightning bug and the lightning" - Mark Twain

When you take on the task of doing a presentation, there are basic issues that should be addressed:

  • overcoming nervousness
  • determining why you are giving the presentation
  • developing a plan for and the content of the presentation
  • polishing your skills by developing vocal variety, effective use of gestures and body language to enhance your delivery and impact
   

Overcoming Nervousness

Planning Your Presentation

Audience Analysis: Give Them What They Want 

How to Introduce a Speaker

Thanking a Speaker

Opening Your Speech: Grab 'em or Go Home!

Gestures: Get Moving

I Speak Two Languages, Body and English: Body Language

Impromptu Speaking: The Art of Thinking on Your Feet

Speak Up, Speak Out: Your Speaking Voice

Humour: Tips from Toastmasters International

Short Guide to Effective Public Speaking

Maintaining Audience Interest

When Words Don't Say it All

Three Keys to Successful Speeches

How to Avoid Audience Saturation

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Beyond the basics

Information to take you beyond the basics... and from ordinary to extraordinary:  how to polish your performance, delivering a toast, being an MC, presenting an award, and much more....

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel".  - Maya Angelou

Being an MC

Protocol for Special Events

Giving a Eulogy

Presenting an Award

Accepting An Award

Handling Questions (Q&As)

Bridging:  comments that link and carry the event...

Toasts: A Guide

Sample Toasts

Saying Grace (Invocations)

Going Pro: Turning Your Passion Into Profit

You Have Charisma? Captivate Your Audience with Star Quality

Do You Know Your "Copy Rights'?

Communication is Part of the Sales Process

Interpersonal Communication

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General Communication and Business Topics

Tips for Teams

Business Etiquette Tips

Business Attire

Business Card Etiquette


 

Additional Content Welcome!

I welcome comments, suggestions and additional material to add to the site.  If you have information on a topic related to public speaking or training I would be delighted to receive it.  I will give full credit to all authors who submit material to enrich and enhance this site as a resource for speakers, trainers and facilitators.

E-mail submissions to: toasted@shaw.ca