Choosing your Speech Styles

Assuming you now know the makeup of your audience, how much time you have to speak, your subject, and your predetermined desired outcome. Now let’s look at another tool that will help you reach your predetermined goal. When you prepare your talks, it is imperative that you choose a “speech style” that supports your proposed goal. This is accomplished by matching the style of your talk with your intended outcome. Below is a list of the most prominent speech styles along with their associate goals:

Type of Speech Goal

The style of talk you choose is largely influenced by your desired outcome. If you want to encourage your listeners to “do” something, a motivational talk is your best bet. If you want to “show” them how to do something, a demonstration talk is a wise choice. Should you want to convince your audience to adopt a specific viewpoint, a persuasive talk is the preferred method. You get the point, I’m sure. I recommend that you take time to study these and other presentation styles because this will equip you to be ready for whatever comes your way. The more tools you have in your bag, the better.

Dr. Gary Rodriguez