Be passionate about your topic, speak slowly, and stick to the allotted time. Know how long you have and practice your speech. A good speech should be easily heard, use simple language, have a steady pace, convey a clear message, and end before losing the audience's attention. It's okay to admit nerves to the audience - most people are afraid to give speeches. Remember to protect confidentiality, use inclusive language, decide how to take questions, overcome barriers to being heard, and obtain contact information if receiving compensation.

1. The Basics of Giving a Speech
 Be passionate about the cause
 Speak slowly
 Know beforehand how much time you have been allotted for your speech and
STICK TO IT. Time yourself before you give the speech – allow enough time for
questions.
Any good speech should:
(1) Be easily heard; (2) be in easy-to-understand language;
(3) Be given at a pace that the audience can follow; (4) have a point or message that the
audience can understand; (5) end before the audience's attention drifts.
It’s okay to be nervous! Stand to speak. You can hang on to a podium or stand behind a
chair, but stand. If you are afraid and shaking, admit it to the audience. They will
understand and admire your courage most of them would rather die then give a
presentation.
Things to Remember:
CONFIDENTIALITY! We don’t ever share client’s names or anything that could be used
to describe them. Change scenarios if talking about an experience that you witnessed.
Gender usage: Most of our clients are female, men definitely experience DV and our
services are available for men also. We just use the he/she pronouns for ease. We also
acknowledge that there are DV issues in same sex relationships.
Question format: Decide if you want to take questions as you go or have them wait till
the end.
Presentation Space:
Make every effort to overcome physical barriers to being heard, such as an echoing room
or one that is so full of carpeting and/or people that it is difficult to hear a normal voice.
Ask for a microphone, a room change, etc. if necessary.
Compensation:
If you are given an honorarium or a “gift” for your presentation, please get an address
and contact person so that we can get them a receipt from the agency.