The speed in which you speak to your friends and family is much different than how you should speak when presenting. It is harder for your audience to digest the content you are speaking about if they are not familiar with the topic. You must be aware how fast (or slow) you are speaking to avoid boring your audience or leave them confused.
Here are 5 ways to help you speak more slowly.
1. Record Your Talk
Try recording your talk either by using video or audio to hear how you speak. Listen to yourself multiple times and take notes. Make the appropriate revisions and practice again!
2. Watch Talks Online
Watching other people speak can help you improve your presentation skills. Take note of when they pause, how slowly they speak and which words they put emphasis on.
3. Relax
Before you start to speak take a deep breath, relax and take in your surroundings. When you are ready, begin your talk and don’t rush through it. Connect with your audience by making eye contact.
4. Focus on Enunciation
To aid you in speaking more slowly focus on enunciating your words. This will also help you convey your message more clearly.
5. Ask for Help
Speaker coaches can also be a wonderful resource as they work with a number of professional speakers on a regular basis. They will be able to provide tips on how to control your nerves and speak more slowly.
