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Know the outcome you want
When I speak, I strive for topics that
are fun, interesting, and helpful, which are
critical. Because speaking just to hear myself
talk isn’t the point of sharing ideas with an
Speakers who invite the audience into their audience. Feedback from different clubs is
topic are like welcoming them onto a carousel. helpful. I note what elements of a speech stand
They can enjoy the ride instead of being left out. Did a certain facial expression make a
behind on the sidelines to watch. The more an point stick? When you get evaluations from
audience feels your experiences, and visualizes Toastmasters it’s an opportunity to know if your
themselves in the situation, the more their concepts are memorable, and if the audience
mind will stay focused and not wander or fall could easily tell someone else what they heard
to boredom. from you.
Consider adding splashes of physical humor, If your subject is more complex, break it into
puns, or surprising twists that will make your bite-sized chunks of information. If you want
audience better understand your topic. Why your points to really stick, then use repetition,
are you the expert to speak about this subject? humor, and vocal variety to make them even
Why are you passionate about it? Share those more sticky. It’s important to not overload the
insights and the audience will feel like they can audience. If your main theme is memorable,
relate and be part of the story as they enjoy the your audience will be engaged until the end of
journey with you. your speech.
VOICES! | APRIL 2023 35
