Speech Competition at PGCC

Hello my public speakers,

Prince George's Community College will host a public speaking contest.Monetary prizes will be given for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.
Contest Rules:

• Open to undergraduate students
• DEADLINE: September 28, 2012 – A 1-2 page speech outline should be sent to mca@marylandcomm.org for initial review.
• Students notified of acceptance by October 1, 2012
• Speech must be the student’s original work and tied to the conference theme, “Finding Voices: Utterances, Actions, and Occupations.”
• Brief notes allowed
• Time limit 3-4 minutes
• Students will present speeches during a preliminary and final round on Friday, October 12th.

What is the hardest thing about public speaking?

For some people, public speaking is their number one fear. But some people have no problem speaking in public. A lot of people are in the middle. Some are comfortable speaking to small or medium-sized groups but not large groups. Some do well if they have time to prepare their speeches but not so well if they have to speak impromptu. Many could benefit from incorporating techniques such as vocal variety, more eye contact or energy during their delivery but they're scared to step outside of their comfort zone. No matter how much practice or experience you have speaking publicly, you can always get better. I watch for audience feedback when I speak to help me to get better. I never get bored with the process because every audience is different. One audience may love your presentation but another audience may get bored with you. This keeps me on my toes and ensures that I never take any speech for granted. Some people may think the unexpected of public speaking--not knowing what to expect from an audience--is the hardest thing about it. I would love to hear what you think is the hardest thing about public speaking.

Characteristics of a Motivational Speaker

Any speech can be motivational but a motivational speech is designed specifically to motivate an audience. When preparing to write a motivational speech, one should consider the following characteristics. Also, I recommend watching a short video of one of the great motivational speakers. www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CiofRGSNAg&feature=youtube_gdata_player Characteristics of a motivational speech   - Deliberately designed to motivate   - The goal to increase the desire and intention to do particular things, achieve certain goals, take on specific attitudes, begin desires processes and procedures   - Taps into or uncovers the audience's dreams and motivations   - Makes the speaker vulnerable by sharing his/her hopes and dreams