Public Speaking

[elevenohtoo]

Can anyone recommend a public speaking class? I will probably join toastmasters but don't have the time right now.

Would like to prepare to provide presentations to large groups and to brief executives. Thanks.

[govtacct02]

Is there a university near you that might have one?

Or have you tried Dale Carnegie or Fred Pryor seminars?

[redryder]

eleven, don't wait until you can attend a class, and I strongly encourage you to join and participate regularly in Toastmasters. In the meantime, here's some advice: practice by recording yourself making a presentation, or doing a briefing (videotape it if at all possible), then watching and critiquing the presentation preferably with a friend who'll be honest with you. See what you're doing that distracts and detracts from your presentation; be conscious of ums, ahs, and ers, avoid them like the plague, and don't feel that you have to fill your pauses with sound. Be animated, use your hands and facial expressions for emphasis; don't read your presentation, make eye contact with a lot of the audience. Practice, PRACTICE PRACTICE!