Mr. Emcee

Biz Tip: Public speaking can help grow your business.

Biz tip: Public speaking can help grow your business Try these tips to overcome your fear of public speaking.

Here is an Educational Moment provided by Rae Stonehouse DTM, President (14-15) at a recent Flying Solo Toastmasters Meeting.

Lectern Etiquette (compiled from the Better Speaker Series – Creating an Introduction

Writing a good introduction is only half of the job. The other half includes a relaxed, professional delivery that creates a friendly atmosphere between both speaker and audience. To create a pleasant ambiance, the proper etiquette should be followed:

Speak to the audience. Primary eye contact should be with the audience members until the speaker’s name is mentioned for the final time.

Lead the applause. When the speaker’s name is stated for the last time, begin applauding. The audience members take their cues from those who have demonstrated authority at the lectern.

Shake hands. Once the speaker has reached the lectern, the introducer shakes the speaker’s hand.

Leave the lectern. The introducer does not cross in front of or behind the speaker. Instead, return to your seat by moving in a direction away from the speaker.

Show interest. Continue to show interest and involvement throughout the speech presentation, especially if you are in view of the audience.