I recently posted a question to the world champion speakers of Toastmasters in our monthly phone conference. I asked them for some strategies that newbie speakers can adopt to identify their own speaking style. And they gave three. Thought I should share them with you.

1. Stage time, Stage time, Stage time!

It is difficult to have your own speaking style until you are comfortable in front of your audience. And the only way you can be comfortable is by getting as much stage time as possible. In fact 95% of your growth takes place when you are out with your audience. One excellent platform for you to get maximum speaking exposure is by joining the Toastmasters International. Visit their website and locate the nearest club to your home. It is worth it!

To ensure that every speech is milked for maximum learning opportunity, remember to employ the daily debrief technique that I shared with you a couple of days ago too!

2. Record your presentations and speeches

What better way to identify your speaking style than to watch yourself speak! See what works in your presentation. Take note of the things that you say or do that makes your audience laugh. Get your friends to look at the recording and tell you what they like or find unique. I still remember the first time I saw my own presentation on screen, it made me squirm. Not because it was bad but I was just not used to seeing myself in action! And I sounded really different. But as time goes, I start to notice my own speaking style. On top of that, I even found some bad habits that were shockingly glaring! For example my distracting hand gestures. And to my surprise, I clapped my hands when I make a point. And that was done unconsciously!

3. Get a coach

Well thats not a bad idea. But I would recommend you to focus on the first two strategies first coz getting a coach can be expensive.

Eric Feng
http://blog.ericfeng.com/