Competitions for 2006

I mentioned in an earlier posting the structure of competitions - club to area, area to district and district to National Finals. In March I was competing at District for the South East. Sadly, that is where the competitions ended for me this year. Having made it to the finals in the past, it would have been great to do it again, but pretty unusual as well. On the day, my speech was not chosen to go forward. I suspect virtually all of you will choose not to speak just for fun in competition. That does not mean there are not lessons that can be learnt from the process. Preparation is vital if you are going to succeed. For some that is a longer process, for others shorter. Learn what is right for you. You want to be rehearsed, but not just give a recital. Find the balance where the structure is in place, but the filling has an element of impromptu or spontaneous speaking about it. That way your presentation will be clear, logical but retain interest and vitality. Remember content is important but so are the delivery skills. Don't neglect one in favour of the other! For all presentations - have fun. Enjoy your speaking.