One of the things I learned in my first semester of acting training was that, as an actor, you have to  “own the stage”.

I’ve carried this through to my speaking.   You need to know that you belong in the spotlight, to feel comfortable there, if your audience is to feel comfortable in your hands.

How do you get that feeling?

For some, it’s enough to remember the phrase “Own the Stage”.  Others find it helpful to do exercises, like the vocal warm ups I mentioned in earlier tips.

If I can, I like to get to a venue early, when the room is empty.  I usually walk all around it, filling it with my voice, testing out the acoustic (and the microphone, if available).    I may do a few lines from my speech, recite a poem or a nursery rhyme.

It helps me feel at home.

What techniques do you do to help you get comfortable and “own the room?”

Today on the Help for Speakers Q and A @ 1 the theme will be warm-ups, but you can bring any speaking or marketing related area you'd like to discuss.  Join me by ringing 0800 449 288, and entering the guest code 54052101#.

  From Australia call  at 11am on 1800 036 0901, from the US call in Tuesdays at 9pm EST and ring 1866 814 5210.

For more speaker tips and ideas visit www.HelpforSpeakers.com. 



To talk to Rachel about coaching, speech-development or training ring +64 3 355 6269, e-mail rachel@HelpforSpeakers.com.