How AI can help with public speaking

Aspects of public speaking to consider

Fear of public speaking is one of the world’s most common phobias: according to some studies, over 70% of people get anxiety when having to give a presentation.

The most effective, direct way to increase your comfort in front of a podium is through practice and feedback. First, here are some presentation elements to keep in mind:

• Pacing. The length of your presentation isn’t only determined by the number of slides you have, but also how quickly you speak. Try adjusting your cadence to tighten up your presentation to fit the time allotted or speak slower to enunciate.
• Tone. Are you presenting an argument or rebuttal, introducing new findings or having fun at a PowerPoint night? As you practice, you may need to tweak or adjust the way your voice sounds in order to convey the right message.
• Delivery. The way you present encompasses both subtle and overt manners of appearance. This can include your posture, hand movements, choice of clothing, the environment where you’re presenting, and even the way you introduce yourself.
• Audience. Knowing your audience and who you’re presenting to is vital. Tailor your presentation or speech to the types of people who will be present, ensuring that they’ll understand and follow along.
• Visual aids. A slideshow that accompanies your speech is an attractive way to present and summarize your key points. Consider visual rules for captivating your audience without overwhelming them with too much information.

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How to practice public speaking with AI tools

With so many elements to consider, it can seem daunting to craft a successful presentation. Practicing with a trusted friend or loved one can be an effective way to get immediate feedback; however, even one-on-one practice may feel intimidating.

This is where AI tools for public speaking come in. These assistants can help you hone your presentation in the following ways:

Vocal analysis

AI-driven speech recognition programs pay attention to your voice as you orate, noting your average pace, tone, and clarity as you speak. In addition, these tools point out which words you stumble across, note your use of filler words (such as “um” or “like”), and guide you in adjusting your vocal performance.

Speechwriting and grammatical checks

Use accurate prompts to ask generative AI whether your speech is timed and paced well for the constraints of your presentation. You can also request recommendations on how to tweak the language in your speech to make it more understandable to a general audience or on ways to fill in logical gaps if you’re making an argument.

Audience engagement

Perhaps you’ve been given the common public speaking advice of “imagine the audience is in their underwear.” Instead, here’s a better way to practice engaging your audience: use AI-powered rehearsal tools for guidance on your performance based on the feedback of a virtual audience. Try these tools numerous times to experiment with speaking styles and pacing so you can get your message down just right.

Following these public speaking tips to integrate AI into your journey can significantly boost your confidence before you step behind the podium. Try other Everyday AI techniques to enhance your day-to-day routine.