Why “slow down” is bad advice for speakers

Now, let me first say: if you are speaking a mile a minute, that's not great. You should definitely slow down (and take a breath between sentences). BUT you know what? It's just as bad to speak slowly.

HERE'S WHY: The average person can process about 650 words a minute. The average speaker talks at about 130 words per minute.

There's a LOT of space between 130 and 650. And that's the problem: Because words enter our brains at a slow speed, but we process them so quickly, there is a lot of time to think our own thoughts. Yes, okay, we could be spending that time thinking about what the speaker is saying, but more likely, we're thinking about what we are going to make for dinner.

So, what's the takeaway for speakers?

Well, definitely DON'T try to speak at 650 words a minute. But what you DO need to do is trick all those fast-processing brains in your audience by varying your speed. In other words, if those brains can't tune into a consistent speed, they won't tune out.

Speed up

Speed up when you're telling a story and during moments when you want to build excitement or a sense of urgency.

Slow down

Slow down if you want to emphasize an important new idea, explain complex information, or convey a more serious tone. And don't be afraid to say, "Let me say that again." And then repeat it even more slowly.

JFK, who is considered one of the best speakers of our time, was a master at varying his speed, zinging between 400 words a minute, down to 90 and back up again.

Final thoughts

The best way to tell if you are speaking too fast or too slow? Look at your audience. If you are speaking too fast, they will look confused. Too slow and they're glassy eyed. Adjust accordingly and carry on!