The Speaker Skills Tree for Professional Speaking

After many years of research, testing, application and results, I formulated a three part Program to develop excellence in Public Professional Speaking skills.  It is unique to Speaker Skills as it is based also on my experiential learning.  As I was embarking on a PHD at the University of Toronto, my Professors gave me the opportunity to further explore my formula for outstanding Public Speaking skills.  My Program was highly successful and following are the three main branches of the Public Speaking Speaker Skills tree.

Branch #1 – Platform Mechanics

Platform Mechanics is the foundation of outstanding speaking.  It all begins with the correct posture whether sitting or standing. Becoming aware of your personal space and how to use it is fundamental to your success as a speaker.  Your posture must project self-confidence.  Self- confidence is the combination of your basic self-worth and your basic sense of competency.  Always strive to acquire the posture internally and externally of a confident speaker.

Platform Mechanics also includes stage mechanics, non verbal communication skills, and spatial relationships.  Facial expressions usually convey how you feel, gestures emphasize what you mean and posture explains who you are.

Branch #2 -Voice Dynamics

A good speaking voice is usually considered to have the following characteristics:

1. Easily heard through proper volume and articulation
2. It’s vitality expresses the impression of strength even when not loud
3. The expression portrays shades of meaning, never boring or monotonous.
4. A pleasant and friendly tone

Branch #3 Presentational Style

The content of every presentation is only 7% of what an audience will remember.

The non verbal communication skills of every speaker account for 55% of their presentation while 38% is based on the tonality of the speaker’s voice.

Doesn’t it make sense that the largest preparation aspect of every speech  should be placed on developing outstanding non verbal communication skills and powerful voice dynamics.  That 7% of information if shared in a dynamic and inspirational way can change people’s minds and action.

Excellence in Public Professional Speaking comes from preparation, practice, and perseverance.

Speaker Skills offers the only course of its kind in Canada. It has been recognized as the venue for developing public speaking skills for professional presentations at a national and international level since 1990.