Speech

Chapter 12: Effective Delivery

Overview

Delivery does not refer to "what you say," but to "how you say it." No matter how well you have written and researched your speech, it will not have much impact if you do not deliver it with purpose and conviction. There are several methods of delivery, including manuscript, memorized, extemporaneous, and impromptu. The extemporaneous method is usually preferred because it sounds most natural. Regardless of your delivery method, you must familiarize yourself with your instrument of delivery, which is your voice. Specific features of your voice, namely, rate, pitch, stress, volume, articulation, and pronunciation, are all important considerations.

An important component of effective delivery is body language. While you speak, you should move purposefully from one spot to another with a rhythmic flow that fits your words. You can also enhance your delivery by using gestures in a natural way.

Finally, your face is probably the most important nonverbal element in effective delivery of a speech. It is important to maintain eye contact with the people in your audience and use their reactions as feedback. Eye contact also inspires your audience to trust you and believe what you say. Effective delivery incorporates your voice, body, and face and gives life and significance to your words.