As I am a ESL speaker and i found it a good resource for understanding the anxiety of speaking and overcoming it for ESL speakers. I learned about speak slowly and clearly, and also about word choice for the speech that i am comfortable in speaking.
For me this article is going to be a big resource. I struggle with filler words not only in public speaking but with everyday conversations.
For me it's a hard habit to break mainly because I was never allowed a chance to speak and this comment accurately explains why I use them:
"Though not an issue when you're giving a speech in front of an audience, when speaking in a group setting (think work meeting) there is often a level of "competition" for the chance to talk. A pause when speaking often gives someone else the opportunity to pounce and take over the role of speaker. A filler word signals others that you're not yet done talking."
Plan appropriately.
Practice.
Engage with your audience.
Pay attention to body language.
Think positively.
Cope with your nerves.
Watch recordings of your speeches.
Having positive thoughts about yourself and your speaking ability can really help you improve in your speeches. This article has a short but sweet section on positive thinking, along with other awesome advice.
This article suggests eight different ways you can make a speech come to life by non-verbal communication, your body language.
Along with this article, toastmasters.org has numerous helpful and useful resources. I suggest you all take a look! :)
I love this article because it gives you several different choices to work with and STRONG examples. Peter Jeff, the author, is very encouraging in this article as well. At the very end he challenges the reader to use one of these ideas on their next speech.
"Speaking clearly is only half of communication. Listening effectively is the other half."
Being a good listener is just as important as being a good speaker, and though some of these tips may not apply to us, the majority of them are very important and worth a look!