The manuscript speech is researched and structured. It is suited to longer, more technical and difficult business presentations at meetings or conferences. A legal presentation, a parliamentary address, a press release or a speech that is to be reported or quoted will use this speaking style. It is usually read. Even through you are reading the manuscript, look at your audiences as often possible to maintain eye contact. Devices like wide margins, large type and double spacing of the speech help you read and maintain some eye contact. Never read the entire speech word for word---you want to speak to the audience rather than at them. This means involving them through the use of your facial expression and eyes. This is more interesting for you audience than looking at the top of your head as you read.
However, briefing is a short, accurate summary of the details of a plan or operation. It is an oral report than aims to inform or persuade the listeners. On different occasions you will instruct, inform, propose or justify solutions, or aim to persuade your audience to some kind of action. An oral briefing that invites the audience to participate is usually more effective than a long speech. Very few people enjoy sitting for a half-hour or more, just listening to one person. In planning and delivering this type of speech:
Prepare the briefing to achieve its specific purpose.
Present background information.
Discuss the available options or alternatives.
Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of a particular course of action.
Outline the positive impacts of the instructions or planned change.
Encourage participation, questions and suggestions.
Show interest in the responses.
However, briefing is a short, accurate summary of the details of a plan or operation. It is an oral report than aims to inform or persuade the listeners. On different occasions you will instruct, inform, propose or justify solutions, or aim to persuade your audience to some kind of action. An oral briefing that invites the audience to participate is usually more effective than a long speech. Very few people enjoy sitting for a half-hour or more, just listening to one person. In planning and delivering this type of speech:
Prepare the briefing to achieve its specific purpose.
Present background information.
Discuss the available options or alternatives.
Analyse the advantages and disadvantages of a particular course of action.
Outline the positive impacts of the instructions or planned change.
Encourage participation, questions and suggestions.
Show interest in the responses.
