How to Speak to a Group

Co-authored by Tavia Sharp

Last Updated: February 12, 2023

When you're asked to speak to a group, are you nervous, sweaty, or panicky? Equip yourself to pass on your experience or skills to others, to better the world.

Steps

1
Define what you have been asked to speak on. Tell yourself you have to do this, but it isn't so much a requirement as it is a chance to have fun.
2
Consider how you feel about it. Are you nervous? Terrified? Totally calm? Indifferent? Whatever emotion you're feeling will affect the quality of your speech. This is why it is important to clam yourself and set those emotions aside.^{[1]
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3
Concentrate on your message. You will develop more confidence as you do this, and less confident when concentrating on "how you feel" in this new situation. If you are too fearful of presenting it, then you will not be able to get your message across to the group effectively.^{[2]
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4
Be yourself. An invitation to speak indicates that your message is meaningful to your audience. Do not try to be someone you're not and speak words that are not yours or use an unnatural tone. Be yourself, smile and have confidence in yourself.
5
Practice, practice, practice. Saying your speech out loud can help you memorize it and become more comfortable. Practice in front of the mirror, record yourself, and then advance to practicing in front of a friend or family member.
6
Keep a mental list of to-do's. Do not focus on what not to do. That would be like playing a ball game and watching for where the ball isn't. Think about all the things you are supposed to do. Certain websites can help you find tips on public speaking.
7
Confidence does not happen overnight. From time to time things happen to make you feel less confident. It's about being aware of this and getting back on the task of delivering the message as best you can. This awareness will come with practice and allow you to become a better speaker.
8
Eye contact with the audience is a scary thing. However, there are some tricks that can help you avoid the nerves associated with looking out over the audience.^{[3]
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9
Have you ever noticed how a lot of people will stand at a podium if they're giving speeches and some will be grasping it tightly? It provides a small sense of security while you're in the spotlight. Whether you are holding piece of paper, the podium or a book. Practice will make this less noticeable and will look more relaxed to the audience. The more relaxed you appear, the easier it is for the audience to become engaged in your topic.
10
Join a speech institution. Toastmasters, for example, is a well-recognized group where you can learn speech skills. Look up local speech groups in your phone book or internet. Find one that suits your personality the best. These groups can make a huge difference in your speech capabilities.

Community Q&A

Question

Where do I look when I talk to a group of people?

Community Answer

It depends on the size of the group. You can choose one or two people to make eye contact with, or you can just let your eyes scan over the group. If it's a public speaking situation and you're nervous, you can also just stare at a place on the wall behind your audience. Whatever makes you most comfortable is best.
Question

How do I prepare a group description?

Community Answer

First, you need to know your listeners' age group to understand the topics they would be interested in. Then, you can list your thoughts on what may work. Engage your listeners by asking questions so they feel like their opinion matters.
Question

How do I talk to someone new at a party?

Community Answer

Introduce yourself, and ask their name if they don't immediately offer it. Ask them how they know the host of the party, or what they do for a living/where they go to school. You can also comment on something in the area, like, "These appetizers are good, don't you think?" Then just see where the conversation goes.

Warnings

Don't look down at your notes. If you look down at your notes the entire speech, the listeners might think that you are a public reader instead of a public speaker. This can be hard for first-time speakers, because everyone in the crowd will seem to be giving you a death stare. Just relax and know that you're the one speaking and they're the ones who have to listen.

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If you make a mistake, don't freeze, panic, and look around to see if anyone heard. If you do, it will become more obvious than ever that you made a mistake. Simply gloss over your error and continue.

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Try not to be nervous as this can look unprofessional. Try taking deep breaths and try to relax.

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