Chapter 7. Golden Rule 7: Develop the skills for arguing in public

Many arguments take place in the course of a conversation, but sometimes there is a more formal structure to them. For example, you are arguing in favor of a proposal at a meeting. Or you are addressing a group of people. If that is the situation, here are some top tips.

How to speak well in public

Be prepared. We have covered this in Golden Rule 1. In conversation you can get away with being a bit muddled, but if you’re making a presentation have all the facts at your fingertips.

Practice. Unless you are very experienced at public speaking, practice what you’re going to say. It is amazing how an argument or joke works well on paper, but falls flat when spoken.

Talk slowly. ...

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