What language should you use when giving a speech or talk? There are so many ways to say the same thing that it is unnecessary to repeat words unless you want to add impact ‘It is essential that we get costs under control; I say again, essential if we are to make a profit this year.’ Repeated words make the audience bored, so use alternatives ‘It is essential that we get costs under control; this is crucial if we are to make a profit this year.’
Where does one draw the line between blatant marketing and delivering valuable information in an interesting way? Let’s take two examples: ‘At Excellent Marketing Ltd we have all the expertise and solutions you need for an innovative campaign to increase your business in these difficult times.’ ‘In these difficult times an innovative campaign is vital if you are to increase your business. There are a number of options available and we at Excellent Marketing Ltd would be delighted to discuss them with you.’
How do you start your speech or presentation? You can open with ‘Good morning ladies and gentlemen, my name is….and I am going to talk to you about….’ which is fine but a bit commonplace. You can ask a question ‘How many of you are wondering how long I am going to talk for this morning? Don’t worry, I am not going to keep you long, but what I have to say will encourage you to take an entirely different approach to marketing your products. My name is… ‘
It is as well to try and avoid common cliché phrases like ‘It gives me great pleasure....’ or jargon like ‘I would like 'it goes without saying' or 'at the end of the day' …’ develop your own style, use your own words and phrases. This is fundamental if your speeches are to be remembered and your message taken to heart.
A quick tip - never clear your throat at the microphone. Clear it before you get up to speak, no-one in the audience should hear the sound of phlegm being removed.
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