Reasons for nervousness before a speech
A variety of things can cause nervousness before a speech. The four reasons for fear include fear of judgment, humiliation, failure, and uncertainty for themselves. The fourth fear is that people may be uncertain of themselves and their capability to present the speech in a way that reflects their ability and skills (Grieve et al., 2021). Additionally, memorizing a speech has the potential to be a flawed method of presentation for several reasons. Firstly, if a speaker has memorized their lines and stumbles during the presentation, this can leave the speaker unable to cover their mistake. Furthermore, memorized speeches lack emotion and connection with the audience because the speaker has yet to internalize their lines. Finally, with memorization, the speaker has yet to internalize their speech’s message, so they cannot improvise or vary the tone and discussion of their speech to better reflect their message.
Reducing excessive nervousness before a speech and general purposes of speeches
To reduce excessive nervousness before a speech, there are a few techniques a speaker can adopt. Firstly, the speaker can take a few deep breaths to help relax and focus on the task. Secondly, the speaker can practice reciting their speech to become more familiar with their lines and to gain a better understanding of the flow of their presentation (Frisby et al., 2020). The speaker can mentally prepare for the speech by creating positive affirmations about themselves and their performance that can help the speaker to boost their confidence before the presentation. Additionally, there are three general purposes of speeches. The first is to inform. This is done to provide listeners with new facts or ideas. The second is to persuade; getting the audience to agree with the speaker’s point of view. Finally, the third purpose is to entertain. This is done to amuse the audience and leave them with a positive experience.
The central idea of a speech
The central idea of a speech is the one main topic or point that the speaker wishes to convey. This is what the entire speech should be based on. The speaker should ensure that everything they say is relates to this idea. This can help to keep the audience engaged and ensure the audience is noting the main point of the speaker’s message (Mikkola, 2021). For example, if the central idea of the speech is to discuss the effects of social media on the youth, then the speaker should focus on how it affects the education and mental health of teenage users. Lastly, it should empower listeners to think critically and work together to create positive change. The speaker aims to spark interest, raise awareness, and drive meaningful progress.
References
Frisby, B. N., Kaufmann, R., Vallade, J. I., Frey, T. K., & Martin, J. C. (2020). Using virtual reality for speech rehearsals: An innovative instructor approach to enhance student public speaking efficacy. Basic Communication Course Annual, 32(1), 6.
Grieve, R., Woodley, J., Hunt, S. E., & McKay, A. (2021). Student fears of oral presentations and public speaking in higher education: a qualitative survey. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 45(9), 1281–1293.
Mikkola, M. (2021). Just Words: On Speech and Hidden Harm.
