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How you say something is often as important as what you say.

As Lesli’s story shows, how you deliver your speech and the verbal and nonverbal skills you use while making your presentation can spell the difference between success and failure. In this chapter, we shared the pros and cons of three modes of prepared delivery—reading from a manuscript, reciting from a memorized text, and speaking extemporaneously from an outline—and noted that extemporaneous delivery is preferred in most contemporary settings. For unprepared delivery, or impromptu speaking, we offered guidelines to come up with a presentation on the spot. We also discussed the many different elements of verbal delivery—volume, tone, rate of delivery, projection, articulation, pronunciation, and pausing—and how to use them to create more impact in your speeches. Employing elements of nonverbal delivery, such as eye contact, gestures, physical movement, proxemics, and personal appearance, can further captivate and engage your audience. By applying the right delivery mode and the right blend of verbal and nonverbal skills, you can get your message across to your listeners—and leave them wanting more.