If you have done a lot of public speaking, then you probably already know the value of using visual aids to get and keep an audience’s interest. If you are new to the public speaking scene, you may very well appreciate having a point of interest that the audience can focus attention on rather than on you. Visual aids can be the key to successful public speaking, when they are used well. And once you have a few basic guidelines under your belt on how to effectively utilize visuals in your speech, the sky will be the limit in finding ways to illustrate your points creatively.

Why Use Visual Aids?

There are a number of reasons to use visual aids to enhance a speech. First, most people will remember a picture that they see much longer than words that they hear. This means that your visual prop will make your message a memorable one. Next, visual aids can be a substitute for using notes during your speech. By lining up your visual aids in order, you can keep track of all of the points that you want to make. Visuals can also make your speech more interesting, creative and even humorous when appropriate. Using props during a speech is often what makes public speaking fun.

Types of Visual Aids

There is any number of visual aid options that you can use. Overhead projectors, Power Point presentations, flip charts, videos and handouts are just a few of the most common types of illustrative tools that are used. You can also use props to illustrate a point, and your choices here are only limited by your imagination. You can use extra large props for fun, or dress up in a fun costume that tie into your topic. Do an easy magic trick, juggle or opt for a gag prop. Your audience will get a laugh, and your speech is sure to be remembered.

There are a few guidelines to keep in mind when using props in public speaking. First, it is a good idea not to let your audience see your prop until you are ready to use it. The element of surprise is a powerful attention getter. When you bring that prop out of hiding, make sure that you continue to address your audience directly instead of focusing your attention on the object itself. Finally, make sure that the object that you choose will easily be seen by everyone in your audience.

These public speaking guidelines are also important to keep in mind if you are using the more traditional visual aids like overhead transparencies or flip charts. Make sure that your illustrations completely fill the page that you are showing to your audience and use colors that are easy to see, like blue, black and green for the majority of the wording that you use. Test out your visual aid equipment prior to your scheduled speech and make sure that the room you will be talking in is well stocked with electrical outlets, cords, flip charts and whatever else you may require.

Visuals are a great way to draw your audience into your topic and help them effectively remember your message. Get creative and have fun with the illustrations that you use, and you are guaranteed a successful public speaking experience!

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