Many people are afraid to use a microphone. Somehow the sound of their own voice amplified terrifies them to their core. You’ll hear excuses like “I know how to project” or “I’ll just talk louder” but inevitably either end up shouting, or they speak loudly for the first few minutes but eventually tone fall back to a conversational level and nobody can hear them anymore losing the attention of the audience. Both are terrible situations and its especially sinful when there’s a microphone available. Here’s a few rules to using a microphone:

Rule #1: If you haven’t taken vocal training then you don’t know how to project your voice properly. If you have taken vocal training, then you already know to use a microphone. If there’s a microphone available, USE IT. You should be able to speak in a normal conversational tone and have the audience hear you.

Rule #2: Do a sound check. Remember that your sound check won’t be perfect because the acoustics will change once the room is filled with people. You’ll need to do a second sound check moments before the presentation begins to make sure that the levels are correct.

Rule #3: Know how to turn the microphone on , off, muted, and un-muted before you go on stage. Turn your microphone ON and to the Un-Muted position before you get on stage so you can start your presentation swiftly without fumbling.

Rule #4: When using a handheld microphone don’t hold it so close to your mouth like it’s an ice cream cone. Your voice should project towards the microphone but not directly into it.

Rule #5: When walking around with a microphone avoid going directly in front of the speakers. Walking directly in front of speakers is likely to cause annoying feedback.

Rule #6: Remember, a microphone is going to make your voice LOUD. Embrace it, love it, and use it to your advantage to create powerful presentations. If they can’t hear you, they aren’t paying attention and then you’re wasting everybody’s time.

And please… don’t go upon stage and tap the microphone and say “Is this thing on?” I hate that.

By following these few simple rules you’ll look like a pro the next time you have to stay a few words… or a lot of words!