Tips for Public Speaking
Be honest. Be conversational. Be brief.
If you just keep these three tips in mind, you’ll do great. But, of course, there’s more. Here are a few more things to keep in mind:
- Hone your message. Go into your talk or interview with no more than three main points. If you’re talking to a reporter, answer their questions briefly and then transition into one of your main points.
- Admit when you don’t know the answer. No one knows it all—and that’s okay. Pretending or lying, though, will destroy your credibility and hurt your cause.
- It’s okay not to answer questions. If someone asks a question you don’t want to answer, don’t. Segue to one of your talking points if you can. Say you don’t know if you don’t know the answer. Or say you’re not comfortable talking about the topic or “it’s difficult to talk about that.”
Tips for Appearing on Camera
When you’re on camera, your story is only half the picture. The other have is the picture—how you look on screen. We’ve all seen people in what not to wear outfits. If we’re focused on how they look, we’re not focused on what they’re saying.
So, obviously, you want to avoid clothes that are flashy, wild, or loud. Think instead of subdued, elegant clothing. If you’re going to be in a TV studio, wear clothes like those worn by the reporter or anchor you’re talking to.
Here are some tips for appearing on camera:
- Women should wear solid colors. Avoid short or slit skirts.
- Men should wear dark suits.
- Avoid large pieces of jewelry or dangling earrings.
- Avoid high contrasting outfits—like black and white.
- Silence your cell phone or any watch with an automatic alarm feature.
- Remove any loose change or keys from your pockets.
- Check to see if there is anything in your nose or teeth.
- Eat a breath mint before an in-person interview.
Where to Tell Your Story
There are many places in your community where you can tell your story. Look for organizations that meet regularly and think about how you can connect your lung cancer story to their work. For example:
- Constituent meetings with elected officials’ staff State House or State Legislature
- City or county council
- Chamber of Commerce
- Elected officials’ town halls