Dictate
If you need to dictate notes or record a presentation of some kind, you might feel nervous about the process. Dictation is easy, so long as you have the right information and are confident in your abilities.
Steps
- Make sure your materials are ready. This will depend on what you're dictating, but prepare your work to ensure that everything is in place and nothing is left out. If you are unsure of your presentation, it is a good idea to read it out loud to see if it makes sense, after all, it is better safe than sorry!
- Be sure of your facts. Incorrect facts can be very embarrassing, especially when publicly pointed out by someone. This is why it is ideal to cross-check your dates and findings. If you are unsure of your facts, it could be quite helpful to ensure accuracy by referring to the internet.
- Use the correct diction and know your piece. The style of language changes per audience; at formal presentations, it is ideal to use formal and sophisticated language and for class dictations, simple English may be appropriate.
- Be confident. Trust in your piece and present it with energy. Bear in mind that even the most informative articles may seem dull with a terrible voice projection. Do not be afraid to answer questions; some people only question your ideas to see if your work is reliable. It is important for you to answer every question with eye contact to exhibit your knowledge of what you are saying.
- Speak with a voice that's mellifluous and pleasing to the ear. Speaking clearly is an important aspect of your dictation. Stumbling over your words may cause confusion or arise rude interferences. Project your voice such that you are head by everyone; a small voice may give away the fact that you are unsure of what you are saying.
- Be patient. Dictating too fast may result in left-out information. Being too slow may cause the people to take advantage of your patience. However, this does not mean ignore a person that is left behind. Say about five to seven words twice before moving on. Ensure that everyone is at the right pace by moving around the area.
Tips
- It is a good idea to practice your dictation with a friend, you can have his or her feedback afterwards.
- There are some people who will try to question you as you are dictating, don't be afraid to answer. If only one person keeps asking a series of questions, or it is a particular notorious group, then kindly inform them that you will not be answering irrelevant questions.
- Don't be afraid to add your own explanations of the text, so long as they are correct, there is nothing to worry about.
- Stay away from negativity and people you feel are discouraging you. You will never succeed with your dictation if you believe in the negativity of others. If you believe, then you can surely do it! :)
Warnings
- Do not get too carried away with answering questions or giving your own explanations, this can cause you to drift off into something completely irrelevant!
