Successful Speaking: Advice on public speaking

Popping up in the final episode of the series is Ewan McGregor. Not only a Hollywood star, Ewan has fronted documentaries and regularly speaks at live events.

"I'd find it much easier to walk on stage and play a part, than walk on in front of an audience and make a speech as myself," Ewan told us: "I find it really, really terrifying".

"Get hold of your nerves," Ewan advised; "The temptation is to talk much too quickly and rattle through what you have to say".

"Just slow down, think and speak at a reasonable rate... generally it goes alright".

And a final piece of advice? "Prepare all of the things that you want to say," Ewan concluded; "Then allow yourself the luxury of thinking through them as you speak".

Miquita Oliver, T4 Presenter

TV Presenter Miquita Oliver talked us through the emotions a speaker goes through.

"You can be very honest about being nervous," Miquita explained, and encouraged speakers to: "Make it as natural as possible".

A regular presenter at live events as well as on screen, Miquita told us that the fun part for a speaker is when they come to terms with the nerves of the situation.

"When it does go well, you can't shut yourself up," Miquita explained. Once a speaker is past a certain point, it all feels worthwhile: "Once you get to the other side, you realise how much fun you were having whilst you were doing it."

"If you weren't nervous," Miquita summarised, "You wouldn't have such a good time knowing that you did a good job".

Everyday Speakers in Manchester

Everybody's an Everyday Speaker

A strong cast of Everyday Speakers in Manchester gave us their top tips on communication.

For Travel Consultant Will, the most important thing is to "Build up a rapport with people, because a lot of people are spending a lot of money".

Tour Guide Ray keeps his audience informed and entertained, but ultimately his most important asset is to involve his audience.

Deputy Chief Executive Alex told us that every day of her week can be unique; "You never know who's going to come through the door".

Building site foreman Marcus has to deal with numerous sub-contractors every week. For him, it's vital to: "Listen to what everyone's got to say".

And for Telephonist Radio Controller Janette, running a taxi rank is all about: "Staying in control".

Wise words, and perhaps proof that everybody is an Everyday Speaker.

Watch Ewan and Miquita's top tips, and see the Everyday Speakers in action using the video player above.

• Slow down, don't speak too quickly

• Don't read from a script

• Make it as natural as possible

• Appreciate the 'moment'

• Stay in control