Giving a speech or firing a machine gun?

Why do some speakers rattle off words like they were firing a machine gun?

It could be one or two of the following reasons below:

1. force of habit

2. nervousness

3. poor self-confidence

4. lack of know-how on the subject

Speaking too fast is definitely a no-no in effective public speaking. Speak at a normal rate, not rattling nor mumbling like an idiot. Never, never eat your words. This is what happens when you speak like you are being chased by rabid dogs. Why? What's the hurry? Are you trying to imply that you have a lot to say and that 7 minutes is not enough to say them? Oh, come on, don't give me that. The best oratorical speeches are delivered in 7 minutes in good diction, loaded content, and with appropriate gestures---and that's where you see public speaking at its best because the orators exhibit proper public speaking skills.

So don't tell me you just need so much time to say everything so you give the audience the "machine gun".

The primary goal of a public speaker is to convince the audience, to make the audience nod in agreement to what he is saying and in doing so, the speaker employs the necessary skills to achieve this goal.

Speak with conviction, with power, with enthusiasm. Speaking fast will not achieve this effect. Have the right stance and poise so necessary in convincing people. How do you expect people to believe in what you say if you slouch, bounce, rock and fire the machine gun?

Rate is important. Space your words and phrases properly---don't go too slow either, but definitely not too fast.

If you have a big audience, give time for your words and voice to travel to their ears. Convince them, look them in the eyes, take your time, give your message straight from your heart, mean what you say.

If you've got a nut that is hard to crack, you will remain where you are.