I finally got around to watching the Oscars (via my beloved DVR) and noticed something very different this year than in the past. No, it wasn’t the new Versace or Vera Wang dresses displayed by all the gorgeous women or the fact the comedians left out any Tiger Woods jokes….it was the quality of the speeches, interviews and overall communication throughout the pre-show and awards presentation that caught my attention.

I guess I am much more clued in to public speaking nowadays with my involvement at Vista Toastmasters here in Orlando. I’ve been a member for almost a year now and since joining, find myself constantly analyzing every celebrity, newscaster and ‘Average Joe’ on his or her speaking style. How many ‘ah’s’ and ‘um’s’ at this past Academy Awards was amazing. It was almost as if people didn’t know they were going to be interviewed or might actually WIN and have to give a speech. It actually made me feel normal when this is what these people do for a living and they too stumble over simple sentences and short speeches!

Nerves always play a part as we have all been there during public speaking but this year just seemed like the speeches were either GREAT or really BAD. Also, speeches getting cut-off (activism issue) and one actually interrupted by a ‘disgruntled’ Co-Producer…reminded me a bit of Kanye West…..it was all somewhat bizarre. A first-time female winner for best director was gracious but whispers abound she may have missed an opportunity regarding her historic victory.  Hey if she wanted to say it, she would have said it.

It was obvious…the speeches that came from the heart (Jeff Bridges, Sandra Bullock) were the most captivating. Wish we could all be so natural in front of millions of people…that is a special talent.

We all know the history of speaking in public and the fear tied to it….so relax and enjoy a few tips on how to improve your public speaking:

• Prepare and Practice – The best advice I can give
• Breathe – You can’t live without it
• Passion – Tell a story where the passion oozes – speech will flow
• Nerves – They’ll be there, accept them
• Be Yourself – Who else can you be?

Finally…Ah….Um….No Farrah Fawcett mention or tribute during the entire Awards Show??? Now THAT is something to speak out about!!!!