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How to Improve on a Descriptive Speech

Speeches are given for many reasons. Some are meant to inspire, such as with a sermon. Some are meant to inform, such as with the announcements of new technologies. To have your message completely understood by your intended audience, you must be able to hold the listeners' attention and convey your meaning and intent to them. One way to do this is through the use of descriptive speech, using terms and devices that enable your audience to visualize the key points of your speech. There are a number of techniques, both physical and verbal, that you can use to do this successfully.

Instructions

    • 1

      Use visual aids. Have a video projector set up to show pictures, graphs, and other information to emphasize certain points in your speech. Don't overload your audience with a lot of visual information -- just enough to add emphasis to your speech.

    • 2

      Use thought-provoking terms. Paint a picture in your audience's mind with your words. Give members of the audience real-world examples to imagine as they listen to you. Use colorful terms when describing objects so the audience can get a better sense of your meaning.

    • 3

      Move around to add emphasis to the key points of your speech. Use a headset with a built-in wireless microphone to allow you to move around the speaking area rather than standing in one place. Don't hide behind a podium unless you have a physical reason, such as an ailment or infirmity that prevents you from moving about the stage.

    • 4

      Use your voice and your body as a descriptive tool. Add inflection to your tone when you are making specific points. Raise your voice to get your audience's attention. Lower your voice sometimes to balance your speech out. Make eye contact with the audience rather than reading lines on your pre-written speech. Move your hands appropriately when making a point.

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