You're about to give an important speech or presentation. You need to know that abuse of certain substances can screw up your performance.
Rule #1: No caffeine. This means absolutely no coffee or caffeinated soft drinks. Even decaf coffee and tea contain caffeine. You want even more adrenaline in your bloodstream during your speech?
Rule #2: No dairy. It thickens the vocal cords. Stay away from milk, cream in that small cup of decaf, even cream sauces.
Rule #3: No carbonated beverages. If your stomach moves during your speech, you'll feel it. If you burp or belch, the audience will feel it.
Rule #4: If you're the after-dinner speaker, don't eat. Because blood flows to a full stomach, you'll feel dull and lethargic. You may be at the head table with a bunch of VIPs. Use the time to talk to them, draw them out, and be interested. You can move the food around on your plate and take an occasional, small bite.
Rule #5: Alcohol. This is an individual choice. You have to know if it works for you -- or against you. I know a veteran speaker who is astoundingly good when she's had a glass of wine. Based on a lot of experience, she knows exactly how much to drink and when.
Bonus Rule: Ask the waiter for a cup of hot water with lemon. Sip it for several minutes before you're introduced. The warmth and the lemon will expand your vocal cords. If that's not possible, slip a honey-flavored cough drop in your mouth. Honey is another vocal cord expander. And, not to be too clinical, that extra saliva will help with "speaker’s dry mouth."
Speaker’s substance abuse can torpedo an otherwise great outing. Know what works for you and what doesn't.
Comments