When writing a speech, it helps to have an idea of how many words it takes to fill 5, 10, 30, or 45 minutes.   

My rules of thumb when speechwriting: I estimate 120 words  a minute if a client is speaking to an audience who may be unused to their  accent, if the speech has many technical terms, or the  audience speaks English as a second language.

Where you are speaking to people who share your language and accent, then you might speak as fast as 140 or even 150 words a minute.

Do you know how many word do you speak per minute (on average)?  If you do, please share.

My view: fewer words, and a slower speech rate is usually better.  That gives people time to digest your ideas, time for laughter and applause, and minimizes the risk that you’ll run over time.    

It’s almost always better to be short and sweet, and give people more time at the coffee break, or for questions, than to run over.

Today on the Help for Speakers Q and A @ 1 we'll talk about humour, stories, and other speaking or marketing related area you'd like to discuss.  Join me by ringing 0800 449 288, and entering the guest code 54052101#.

For more speaker tips and ideas visit www.HelpforSpeakers.com. 

To talk to Rachel about coaching, speech-development or training ring +64 3 355 6269, e-mail rachel@HelpforSpeakers.com.

Join the Help for Speakers weekly Q and A session every Wednesday from 1.00-1.30pm NZT (that's 11.00-11.30 Australian EST).   Ring in if you have a question, need inspiration or ideas for an upcoming presentation, or want to talk about speaking as a way to get business.   From New Zealand call 0800 449 288, from Australia call 1800 036 0901, and then enter the Guest Access Code 54052101#. If you want to call in from the US, e-mail me and I'll sort out the calling line (the time is 6pm Tuesday Pacific Time, 9pm EST).  If you wan to ring from the UK, e-mail me, and I'll find a time to talk when we are both awake.