Last updated on Jun 21, 2024

Here's how you can develop assertiveness for public speaking competitions.

Assertiveness is a key trait for effective public speaking, especially in competitive settings. It's the confident and forceful expression of your ideas without being aggressive. In public speaking competitions, where you must persuade judges and captivate audiences, assertiveness can make the difference between blending in and standing out. Developing this skill involves understanding your value, knowing your material, honing your delivery, and managing your presence on stage. It's about striking the right balance between being respectful and being bold. You'll find that with practice and the right approach, assertiveness in public speaking can be cultivated, enhancing not only your performance but also your personal growth.

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1 Know Yourself

Understanding your strengths and weaknesses is the first step to becoming assertive in public speaking competitions. Reflect on past experiences to recognize what you do well and where you could improve. This self-awareness will allow you to capitalize on your strengths and address your weaknesses with targeted practice. For example, if you're great at storytelling but struggle with using data to support your points, focus on integrating evidence-based information into your narratives. By aligning your assertiveness with your personal speaking style, you'll project confidence that is both genuine and engaging.

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2 Master Content

To speak assertively, you must have a firm grasp of your content. This means not only understanding the topic but being able to discuss it from multiple angles. Dive deep into your subject matter, and prepare to answer questions or address counterpoints. When you know your material inside out, it becomes easier to speak with authority and assertiveness. Additionally, rehearse your speech multiple times to ensure that you can deliver it smoothly, which will further boost your confidence on stage.

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💚 Marysia 💚 Morawska, CFR CC MG MFP FF-EMT

Talking about #hemp #genetics #plants #food #ecologicalapartheid #energy #truth 💚 @NutritionBeforeRx
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CONFIDENCE. IS. KEY. If you have a choice on the topic, make sure that you pick one for which your knowledge is deep. You want to be able to veer in and out of details that will interest your audience and stump your competition. This can be attained when you know more about your subject at hand, than your opponents.

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3 Vocal Power

Your voice is a powerful tool for assertiveness. Practice speaking with a clear, strong voice that conveys confidence. Pay attention to your tone, pitch, and pace. Varying these elements can emphasize important points and keep the audience engaged. Work on eliminating filler words and vocal tics that can undermine your assertiveness. Breathing exercises and vocal warm-ups can also help you control your voice better, ensuring that when you speak, people listen.

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💚 Marysia 💚 Morawska, CFR CC MG MFP FF-EMT

Talking about #hemp #genetics #plants #food #ecologicalapartheid #energy #truth 💚 @NutritionBeforeRx
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KEEP. CALM. Maintain a peaceful volume and assert your position without raising your voice. If you can get your competitor flustered, but you keep your cool, you've already won.

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4 Body Language

Assertiveness is not just about what you say but also how you say it. Your body language communicates volumes to the audience. Stand tall with an open stance to exude confidence. Make eye contact with different parts of the audience to create a connection and show that you're not intimidated by the public setting. Gestures should be purposeful and complement your message. Avoid fidgeting or closed-off postures that can signal nervousness or lack of confidence.

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5 Manage Anxiety

Even the most seasoned speakers experience anxiety. The key is to manage it so it doesn't hinder your assertiveness. Techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, and positive self-talk can help calm your nerves before taking the stage. Remember that some level of anxiety is normal and can even be channeled into positive energy that enhances your performance. Embrace the adrenaline rush as a sign that you're ready to engage with your audience.

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💚 Marysia 💚 Morawska, CFR CC MG MFP FF-EMT

Talking about #hemp #genetics #plants #food #ecologicalapartheid #energy #truth 💚 @NutritionBeforeRx
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EAT. A. BANANA. (before your speech) Settling your anxiety with non-Rx options is very possible and practical. Sometimes, we get so caught up in our presentations that we forget to take care of ourselves in the ways we need. There are healthy and holistic options that will give you smoother waters for sailing into the sunset with your subject, rather than crashing off caffeine and anxiety.

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6 Engage the Audience

Finally, assertive speakers know how to engage their audience actively. Ask rhetorical questions, use relatable examples, and encourage audience participation when appropriate. This interaction not only keeps listeners interested but also demonstrates your control over the room. When you involve the audience in your speech, you're showing assertiveness by guiding the experience and maintaining the flow of the presentation.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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💚 Marysia 💚 Morawska, CFR CC MG MFP FF-EMT

Talking about #hemp #genetics #plants #food #ecologicalapartheid #energy #truth 💚 @NutritionBeforeRx
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Be more aware of your presentability than normal. When you have the stage to yourself, it's one thing. Conservative attire and professionalism are more important than fashion trends and look "cool" during a competition. You want to look confident, but not cocky.

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Here's how you can develop assertiveness for public speaking competitions.

1

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3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Yourself

2 Master Content

3 Vocal Power

4 Body Language

5 Manage Anxiety

6 Engage the Audience

7 Here’s what else to consider

Public Speaking

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Here's how you can develop assertiveness for public speaking competitions.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Know Yourself

2 Master Content

3 Vocal Power

4 Body Language

5 Manage Anxiety

6 Engage the Audience

7 Here’s what else to consider

Public Speaking

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