As an ENFP I have the ability to talk for hours. It doesn’t mean I’m always interesting, but I like to talk. In order to deliver quality message I needed humility. I needed to discover that speaking means working hard.
Courtesy of Jaako/Creative Commons License
An important part of a youth minister’s job is speaking. If you do not know how to deliver a message to teenagers you’ll have a hard time influencing and impacting them. While not all youth ministers are gifted speakers there are several steps that you can take to improve. Here are 7 that I use:
It does not matter if you speak off of notes, an outline or a written script, you need to make sure it’s clear. If writing a script make sure someone looks over it. If you are going off of an outline look at developing a message map (To learn about message maps click here).
The clearer your notes the more confident you will be. Take the time to prepare your material before you work on your delivery. The hard work will pay off.
Finding the time and energy to practice after writing a message is challenging. Most times we just want to be done with it. Or, we have so many distractions it’s difficult to find the time. Put in your schedule the hour or so you need to practice. The more time you practice the more you’ll know the material.
A live audience will give you:
Not only will they give you the wisdom you need to improve, but it is a great way of getting rid of any jitters. Find people who love you and are willing to deliver hard truth. It’s worth it.
While you rehearse it’s important to take notes on things you learn. I tend to write down places where I need to slow down and change my tone. You could mark where you need to pause and breath. When you make tangible notes on your message you’ll have an easier time remember.
If you have a hard time practicing in an empty room practice visualizing your delivery. Imagine certain people in the audience. Paint the scene in your head.
Imagine people laughing, crying or engaging in your message. Granted it might not happen that way, but it will help you own the material.
One of the largest obstacles to great speaking are our nerves. Whether it’s stage fright or pumping adrenaline you need a ritual that will help you focus. For me it’s music. For you it might be:
Do what it takes to get ready.
One of the best ways to improve your speaking is by watching and listening to yourself speak.
This way you’ll be able to point out any moves or actions that make sense. You might discover why certain people react in certain ways. Video clears up a lot on what needs to improve.
As a youth worker you are teaching and preaching to grow disciples. It’s not about you or your reputation, it’s about God’s word. Handing over what you want to deliver to God helps you focus on what’s most important. Instead of willing yourself through, allow God to guide you.
Speaking is a gift; however, it needs attention too. Sharpen your gift by practicing. Create a system where you can analyze and improve. In the end all the hard work will pay off.
[reminder] What steps do you take to improve your speaking? [/reminder]