Value Chain of Public Speaking TM

EXPERT: Part 2 - Skills Assessment

Instructions: Carefully read through the list of capabilities/skills and identify your current skill level for each. Continue to focus on your targeted presentation (identified in Part 1) as you answer each question. Allow up to 15 minutes to complete this section.

Once you have answered all the questions, click the “View Results” button. Your results will appear on the screen and will be e-mailed to the address you provided.

Adaptability

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Adapting to last-minute glitches (technology, logistics)
2. Considering what to do in advance if rules change (less time, etc.)

Know Your Audience

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Researching who will be there
2. Identifying what they already know on the topic
3. Identifying what they need to know on the topic
4. Understanding how the audience prefers to receive information

Clarify the Core Message

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Identifying the purpose of the presentation
2. Distinguishing between a topic and a core message
3. Summarizing the presentation in one, simple take-a-way sentence
4. Targeting the message to the audience

Organize Using a Storyboard/Outline

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Brainstorming the potential content on a given issue / topic
2. Boiling down information into 2-4 main points you must talk about
3. Grouping together facts that are similar
4. Prioritizing the order to create a logical flow
5. Supporting key points through evidence and details
6. Omitting unnecessary details to avoid information overload
7. Creating an efficient opening and closing
8. Using plain English and knowing when to avoid jargon
9. Staying within time allotted

Develop Slides to Maximize the Impact of the Message

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Employing designated templates productively
2. Boiling slides down to support key facts
3. Ensuring slides support the message vs. being the message
4. Ensuring everyone in the room can see and read the slides
5. Using visuals vs. text whenever possible

Express Yourself With Authenticity

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. Understanding how I am seen by others
2. Knowing how my personal style differs from others
3. Aligning my facial expression with my purpose
4. Including everyone with direct eye contact
5. Standing tall and open, with good posture
6. Using gestures to support the content of the presentation
7. Avoiding aimless movement when delivering a presentation
8. Avoiding verbal fillers like ah, um, ya know, so, like
9. Talking with a conversational tone when delivering a presentation
10. Keeping a good speaking pace (not talking too fast or too slow)
11. Adjusting volume to emphasize important points
12. Pausing to emphasize important points

Q&A Discussion

 InadequateAcceptableProficient
1. If audience needs clarification, I am ready to answer questions and accept challenges without being defensive
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