There are four primary styles of delivering a speech. The best choice depends on the occasion, the topic, and the speaker's skill level.

• Manuscript: Reading a speech verbatim from a prepared text. This ensures accuracy but can sound wooden and prevents good eye contact.
• Memorized: Reciting a speech from memory. This frees the speaker from notes but carries the risk of forgetting the text and can also sound unnatural.
• Impromptu: Speaking "off the cuff" with little to no preparation. This is spontaneous but can be disorganized and rambling.
• Extemporaneous: This is the most common and recommended style for business presentations. The speech is carefully planned and rehearsed, but the exact wording is chosen at the moment of delivery. The speaker works from an outline or speaking notes rather than a full manuscript. This style allows for a delivery that is both spontaneous and well-organized. As the speaker rehearses, they are likely to use different words each time, which helps the final delivery sound natural.

For extemporaneous speaking, notes are essential. Effective speaker notes should be:

• Legible: You must be able to read them easily at a glance.
• Unobtrusive: They should not be a distraction to you or the audience. This means using them discreetly rather than hiding behind them or constantly looking down.
• Brief: They should contain keywords and phrases from your outline, not detailed, full sentences. This encourages you to speak conversationally rather than read to the audience.
• Key Advantage: Handouts based on speaking notes can be prepared using presentation software, which is a key advantage of organizing your speech this way.

Your voice is a powerful tool for conveying meaning and emotion. Effective vocal delivery involves mastering several characteristics:

• Articulation: The skill of speaking in distinct syllables. It involves correct pronunciation and clear enunciation, ensuring your words are easy to understand.
• Rate: The speed of your speech. The average rate is about 140 words per minute. It's important to vary your rate to add emphasis and maintain listener interest.
• Pitch and Inflection: Pitch is the highness or lowness of your voice. Inflection is the practice of altering your pitch and tone to express or magnify meaning. Proper inflection is key for conveying emotion and making a message memorable.
• Volume: The loudness of your voice. You must speak loudly enough to be heard but not so loudly that you seem aggressive or insensitive.

Your physical presence plays a huge role in your delivery. A presentation begins the moment you are in view of your listeners, as your nonverbal communication is already sending a message.

• Appearance: As discussed in Chapter 3, your attire should be professional and appropriate, enhancing your credibility.
• Posture: Stand erect and confident.
• Gestures: Use natural, purposeful gestures to emphasize points and convey emotion.
• Eye Contact: Maintain direct eye contact with your audience to build rapport and show you are connecting with them.
• Facial Expressions: Your expressions should match the content and tone of your message.
• Increasing Credibility: A presenter's credibility can be increased through a combination of these delivery skills:
  • Being well-dressed and well-groomed (Appearance).
  • Demonstrating sincerity (Vocal Tone and Facial Expressions).
  • Complimenting the audience and building rapport (Verbal and Nonverbal Interaction).