1. Articulation – According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, articulation is “an act, process, or means of putting something into words” or “the clear and accurate pronunciation of words especially in public speaking.”

Sometimes, faulty microphones, poor facilities, and a noisy environment make the speech hard to understand. But being able to pronounce your statements properly helps you to be understood by your audience.

Moreover, articulation can also mean being able to articulate your ideas properly on a discourse level. This means that, aside from the microlevel of pronunciation or the manner in which you enunciate sounds in every syllable, you should also be able to translate your ideas into words, sentences, and paragraphs that are coherently arranged to make a point. The patterns of organization, which were discussed in the previous module, can help you articulate your ideas properly.

2. Modulation – According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, to modulate your voice is “to change the sound of (your voice) by making it quieter, higher, lower, etc.” It also means “to change or adjust (something) so that it exists in a balanced or proper amount.” Modulation is therefore achieved by changing the tone or pitch of your voice to convey various nuances of meanings when you speak. For instance, you modulate your voice in certain ways when you say “yes” to answer a question and when you use it to ask a person what he or she wants. At the same time, it is achieved by speaking at just the right tone and pitch so that your voice is pleasant to the ears.

Do you notice how hosts of radio programs have well-modulated voices? They have to hone their skill of inflecting their voice pitch or tone so that they can pronounce words more clearly and sound good to their listeners. No one likes to listen at length to a high-pitched, shrill, or squeaky voice as this hurts the ears. Practice will make your voice sound better. Listen to good examples of modulated voices to learn the difference and start inflecting your own voice and pitch to sound better.

3. Stage presence – According to Dictionary.com, stage presence is the ability to command an audience with impressive style or manner.

Some people seem to command attention by just showing up onstage. They are good-looking or physically imposing so people cannot help but notice them. Even if you do not possess these physical traits, you can still command attention and have stage presence by grooming, dressing up, and, most importantly, speaking well. You can develop an impressive style of speaking so that your audience cannot help but listen to you. Your voice should sound good and your command of the language must be excellent. Your knowledge of the topic should be credible and extensive. These are but a few of the things that you can enhance in order to have a strong stage presence.

4. Facial expression – This is a gesture executed using the facial muscles. Your face reveals a lot about what you think or how you feel. It is your most basic visual aid. Without words, you can still convey your gladness or regret in delivering a speech. Your face also shows your enthusiasm or lack of interest in the topic, audience, or occasion. Be very careful about how your face looks in front of other people. Be conscious, too, of what facial expression accompanies your words. You cannot fake enthusiasm. If you do not feel happy about what you are going to talk about, you probably chose the wrong topic or you probably should not be delivering the speech at all. In any case, do not show displeasure to your audience or anything that might be seen as rude or offensive. Instead, animate your face to show a sincere desire to share your message and inspire enthusiasm in your audience. Smile and allow various emotions to show in your eyes.

5. Gestures – These refer to movements or positions of the hands, arms, body, head, or face that express ideas, opinions, emotions, among others.

Just like facial expressions, gestures can communicate more than your words do. Use gestures and body movements to call attention to ideas, to emphasize words, and to highlight a point, among others. However, too many gestures and body movements, might be seen as theatrical and insincere and could even distract your audience from understanding your message.

6. Rapport with the audience – This refers to a speaker’s connection with his or her audience. This connection is characterized by harmony, conformity, accord, or affinity.

Here are some ways to establish rapport with the audience:

7. Audiovisual aids – These are devices such as films, video and audio clips, slide presentations, models, and blackboard notes that accompany spoken messages to help the audience comprehend, appreciate, and retain information better. Audiovisual aids help not only in catching and keeping the attention of the audience, but also in supporting and clarifying your message. Hence, make sure you use appropriate audiovisual aids that will help you achieve your purpose in delivering your speech. Video and sound clips, pictures, tables, charts, graphs, and other graphic organizers used alone or in combination with a slide presentation are examples of visual aids that can help you deliver a more effective speech to a more interested audience.