YOUR VOICE & PUBLIC SPEAKING
Even before you open your mouth in public, there is a concept that you probably want to keep in mind: The Information Iceberg. Just be aware that before you speak, people may be making an evaluation of you , consciously or unconsciously, on what your values are.
These preconceptions by some of the listeners can affect how they digest what they hear from you. A rough sketch of the information iceberg:
Make eye contact with the people in the group, whatever its size. Make some eye contact with the whole group, especially the people in the back. It will draw them in. This may also give you a sense of how your words are being received. If many in the crowd are ambivalent, somewhat distracted, or seem under-engaged, keep a wide ranging sense of eye contact, but find that someone (or two) who are attentive and speak to them--while addressing the whole group. Strive to remain warmly conversational.
Adjust the volume of your speech to the size of the group, while trying to maintain that warm, conversational tone. It may require a microphone. The pace of your speech is very important, for several reasons. If you speak at a moderate pace, and enunciate clearly, you will be a more effective speaker for those whose first language is not English, and to those who are a bit hard of hearing. Another very important aspect of a slightly slower pace of speech than that which you would use casually with friends, is that it allows you to hear yourself speak, and possibly catch errors when you have misspoken. If you make a mistake while speaking, pause, correct yourself and continue. Do not linger on a mistake.
Be careful with acronyms. Generally, do not assume that your audience is up to speed on such abbreviations. If you say "AWOL", some may take it as Absent Without Leave, while others may take it as "a wall;" "VDHA" could be the Vermont Dental Hygienists Association or the Vietnam Dog Handlers Association. Different crowds.
Record a video of yourself giving your speech. Start by using a prepared script. Then, gather a small group of forthright, trustworthy friends and have them listen to you. Incorporate their suggestions as appropriate.
Last thought: Know your audience. Know your message. Know your timing. Speak clearly, let your voice be heard, give the people a good public servant option, and appreciate your contribution to the democratic process.
