3 Simple Ways to Be a Better Speaker

Author: Jasmine Zhu       

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

Research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health in 2016 shows that 74 percent of people suffer from speech anxiety. Now Orai, a Philadelphia-based company, has launched an app for that. Users can record themselves speaking and use the app to get feedback in real time.

Everyone can get better at public speaking, according to Orai’s website, by paying attention to these three simple things.

1. Cut the excess. Hedging language such as “umm,” “like,” “kind of,” and “so,” reduces the credibility of what you’re saying.

2. Change it up. Don’t be flat. A 10-percent increase in vocal variety helps increase audience retention and has a positive impact on your presentation.

3. Slow it down. Speaking too fast is a sign of nervousness. It can show a lack of confidence while making it harder for audiences to believe what you’re saying is significant.

Look out for more about Orai in our upcoming November issue. 

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