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We all need public speaking skills, even if it's only the skill of asking a question at a local meeting of the Parents and Teachers' Association. Over the years I have seen even very experienced public speakers forget the most basic principle of oral (spoken) communication.

Public speaking is something that frightens a lot of folks but in reality, there's not that much to be afraid of. Believe it or not but one can actually improve their speaking skills, how is that possible, you ask?

When I ask my audiences their number one challenge with public speaking, they overwhelmingly say, “to overcome the fear of public speaking.” It's okay to have "butterflies.” The key is how to get them organized, focused and flying in formation. Here are 10 tips for delivering a more powerful, persuasive presentation. Practice these techniques consistently to improve public speaking skills.

In a recent survey the fear of public speaking was rated No. 1, even beating the fear of death! Comedian Jerry Seinfeld quipped, "That means that at a funeral the average person would rather be in the casket than doing the eulogy!" Even the most experienced speaker gets anxious when speaking in public. However, this fear can be controlled and even used to advantage. This article teaches us why people are nervous when speaking in front of a crowd and how you can conquer your fear. Let's look at three areas of concern:

Fear of the Audience

There are four essential elements that you need to master ifyou are ever going to be a successful public speaker andfully engage with your audience.

Eye Contact

Over 80% of your impact is going straight into your audiences eyes...so look at them...not the floor or the
walls or the ceiling or at your visual aids...look at the people.

Feeling less confident when speaking in public? Here are some tips to boost your confidence in public speaking.

Tip no. 1. You should have eye contact with the audience all the time.

Tip no. 2. You should just relax. You know now by heart what you intend to say. Just do it.

This is it! You've landed your first Public Speaking engagement. You've have prepared and rehearsed. You are all ready to give your best presentation ever.

As you begin you have exactly 3 minutes of your presentation to grab the audience attention and build rapport to ensure they buy in to what you have to say.

In the first 3 minutes of your presentations, your audience is sizing you up. They are deciding whether they like you and whether are you worth listening to. If you lose your audience in the first 3 minutes you will be playing catch up for the rest of the presentation.

Whether you want to be a part time, full time or BIG time speaker you must speak, speak, speak. At first, deliver

25-30 minute free talks to service clubs and community organizations. Consider it to be your off-Broadway tryout. A great opportunity to fine-tune your program.and maybe get some future paid business!

Do the following to put at ease when delivering a speech: