Top 10 Qualities of a Good Speech

Oral communication is the oldest and most widely used medium of communication. It can take place in different forms and speech is one of them. Speech is generally, the most effective medium of delivering message in meeting, seminar, conference etc. Speech refers to delivering message through words of mouth or spoken words in front of audience gathered in a meeting, seminar or conference. Through speech, the speaker can present his opinions and thoughts on any matter to a large number of audiences at a time. Therefore, it is widely used in delivering oral message in business, social, political and religious gatherings.

A speech is a highly structured form of address in which a speaker addresses an audience gathered to hear a message.

At least, we can say that speech is a kind of formal address delivered to an audience gathered in a place to hear a message.

What does a Good Speech have ?

Speech is an effective means of oral communication. It is delivered in front of a large gathering. Therefore, speech serves as an important medium of presenting information in meetings, political or business gatherings. However, a speech becomes effective when it fulfills the following features:

1. ClarityClarity is an essential feature of a good speech. Speech should be clear and unambiguous so that the audience can understand it easily. If it is not clear enough to express its meaning to the audience, it will become ineffective.
2. Definiteness of Message
   Message of the speech should be definite and relevant with the subject matter.
3. Conciseness
   Audience becomes impatient to long speech. Hence, speech should be as concise as possible. However, it should not incomplete.
4. InterestingSpeech should be delivered in an interesting and pleasing way so that the audience is motivated to pay attention. In order to make the speech interesting, various stories, examples, quotations and jokes can be cited.
5. Informal Touch
   Though speech is a formal address, it should be presented in a personal and informal way.
6. Considering the Audience
   Speech is delivered to a specific audience. So the speaker should actively consider the expectations, interest and nature of the audience.
7. Speaking Slowly
   An ideal speech is one which is delivered slowly and in usual tone. It helps the audience to hear and understand the message clearly.
8. Free from Emotions
   Another important feature of good speech is that it should be delivered in an unbiased and un-emotional way. Speaker’s emotion may drive him away from the main theme.
9. Use of Body Language
   Good Speech goes with necessary body language. Therefore, at the time of delivering speech, the speaker should use various nonverbal cues.
10. Ensuring Participation of Audience
    A good speech is one which ensures participation from the audience with the speaker. That means, the audience will ensure their attention through effective listening, expressing their solidarity with the speech and so on.