Use the microphone effectively next time you speak ...

Last weekend I did a college function in Tableview and introduced a speaker who delivered a great speech with only one problem… no-one heard it! He had no idea how to make the best of the microphone and I immediately made a mental note to share some tips on this topic with you. So here are my TOP THREE TIPS for good microphone technique when making a speech at your next function.

The microphone is your best friend. It is a functional tool with a very specific purpose… to make you sound good!

1. Hold the mic with pride and handle it assertively. Good posture commands respect and instils confidence in yourself and with your audience. If it’s a hand-held mic, hold it up instead of below your chin. My pictures on this page will give you a good reference (also see image below).

2. Always speak directly into the microphone. You should get the best results when holding it 8-10cm from your lips. If you feel that your voice is too soft, simply bring it closer to your mouth and vice-versa.

3. Project your voice. Even though you have a microphone, start out speaking as if you are a teacher trying to be heard clearly by the boy in the last row of your Grade 12 class. You are not speaking at the breakfast table. The fact is you are addressing a room full of people. So “throw your voice out at them”.

Oh, and avoid standing in front of the speakers. It results in “feedback” – that high-pitched screechy noise. When that happens, you can be sure that you lost the favour of your audience. No need to worry though, your Master of Ceremonies should point out a safe spot for you to stand.


PS: Guys please let me know whether you find these posts useful. If there are any specific topics you want me to talk about, please let me know.


Posted on:  23 July 2012

Lance Kenned aka Mister MC

Master of Ceremonies, Cape Town, South Africa