Speech Structure
| Section | Time | Content |
|---|
| Opening | 10% | Hook (story, question, stat) + promise: what they'll learn |
| Body | 75% | 3 main points — each with story + data + takeaway |
| Closing | 15% | Summary, call to action, memorable final line |
Managing Nerves
| Technique | Why It Works |
|---|
| Box breathing | Inhale 4 sec → hold 4 → exhale 4 → hold 4. Activates parasympathetic nervous system. |
| Reframe as excitement | Anxiety and excitement are the same physical state — your brain labels it. Choose "I'm excited." |
| Practice out loud | Record yourself. You'll find 5 things to fix in the first 60 seconds of playback. |
| Arrive early | Familiarize with the room, test tech, meet early arrivals — this is YOUR space now. |
Delivery Tips
| Element | Tip |
|---|
| Eye contact | 3 seconds per person — move naturally, not like a sprinkler |
| Pacing | 120-150 words/min. Pause after key points — silence commands attention. |
| Gestures | Above the waist, open palms — avoid crossed arms or hands in pockets |
| Voice | Vary pitch and pace — monotone loses audiences in 90 seconds |
Handling Q&A
| Scenario | Response |
|---|
| Don't know the answer | "Great question — I don't have that data. Let me follow up with you after." |
| Hostile question | "I hear your concern. Here's my perspective..." Stay calm — audience sides with composure. |
| Rambling question | "If I understand correctly, you're asking about [restate concisely]?" |
Pro Tip: Your audience wants you to succeed. Nobody sits in the audience hoping the speaker bombs. They've invested their time — they're rooting for you. Remembering this is the single best cure for stage fright.