Speaking in front of a big group of people can be a nerve-racking experience, but don’t let stage fright deter you. If you are well-prepared, you should find yourself enjoying the Model UN experience very much. There are no hard and fast rules for effective public speaking but there are general pointers that you can keep in mind. Think about some of your favourite orators, politicians, news presenters, actors and actresses – observe their style of presentation and see what you can learn from them. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Model UN debating.
Do I have to write a speech?
No, you don’t. In fact, it’s probably better if you don’t because you’ll be able to avoid reading straight from a piece of paper that way. It’s good to be prepared and if you’re confident enough, it is preferable just to jot down a few key words and ideas to jog your memory. Try to deliver your speech freely or “off the cuff” because you will sound less monotonous that way.
How should I speak?
Try to pace yourself and not talk too quickly. Even though speeches are usually about 1 to 1.5 minutes long, you can pause to give the audience time to digest what you are saying. Try to maintain eye contact with the audience. Remember that there are time limits on speeches – be aware of this and if you want, leave time for questions from the floor.
Body language is important as well. Keep your hands out of your pockets – feel free to use hand gestures, but not so many that your limbs are flailing! Stand with your feet slightly apart and relax your shoulders – this will make you seem more relaxed and make your delivery less “wooden”. Finally, be confident in yourself. You’re well prepared and during that Model UN, you are the authority for your country’s policies!
What should be in the content of my speech?
Because you only have limited time to speak, try to be concise and get to the point straight away. Usually it helps to focus on specific issues or clauses in the resolutions that you think are problematic. In smaller committees, you might have more time to elaborate on your ideas, but in larger committees like the General Assembly, you won’t have that luxury. You might like to demonstrate the extent of a problem you’ve identified and to explain the effects of that problem by using facts and examples. Address the causes of the problem and present your solutions, or even better, suggest a joint solution that you have come up with, in partnership with other delegates. Try to show where other similar policies have been effective. Explain why your solution is a good one by showing, for example, how it will reduce the extent of the problem, result in advantages or streamline processes. Think of loopholes in your solution before you make your speech because you may be questioned about it by other delegates.