Claudia Raab's Blog

"The most precious things in speech are pauses."

Sir Ralph Richardson

Imagine trying to have a conversation with someone who would not pause. It's not a very pleasant thought, is it? Instead of a dialogue your conversation would rather be a monolog resulting in you loosing interest in it rather quickly. Why? Normally you would expect to be included in a conversation and contribute to it.

Every form of communication needs to include pauses. Presentation, talks and speeches are no exception, since a great speech is like a conversation you have with your audience, not a monolog.

Pauses are essential since:

1. Firstly, as speakers we need to breathe, in particular when we are anxious about giving a presentation. Breathing not only relaxes us but also calms us down.
2. Secondly, we need pauses to think. This is true not only for the presenter but also for the audience. Pauses make it much easier for your listeners to take in and process the info you are giving. As a consequence your audience will be able to follow you easier and you automatically reduce the risk of loosing them.
3. Thirdly, pauses a great way of rising tension, attention or emphasing. Making a pause can create a dramatic effect you should underestimate.

If your practising your speech today, pay special attention to your pauses and check where and when to include them! Fascinate your audience! Good luck!