If you’re one of the millions of people whose hands start shaking or are overcome with stage fright when speaking in public, you’re not alone. Most people would rather get a route canal than speak in front of an audience. In fact, it’s the #1 fear for nearly 75% of people.
But here’s the good news: public speaking doesn’t have to make your heart race. As a former network broadcaster, I overcame the same nerves when I began reporting and anchoring.
In this article I’ll outline some easy tips and share my “media insider” secrets for public speaking. Secrets that have been used by thousands of our clients to ace dozens of TV media interviews and press conferences.
Who Needs It?
You may be thinking, “Public speaking? Not for me.” Oh, but it is. This isn’t just for CEOs. If you want to be successful in any line of work or life, learn to speak. It doesn’t matter whether your audience is 1 or 10,000!
Executives
Your effectiveness as an executive hinge on your ability to communicate your company’s vision, goals and strategy. Communicating clearly and commanding the podium turns every presentation into a compelling and credible opportunity to connect with minds and hearts.
Startup CEOs
Running a startup is a big endeavour and the ability to shape and organize your thoughts and presentations will help you persuade listeners to support your key ideas. Whether you are pitching to investors, rallying your team, or promoting your product at a conference, you can command attention and present with poise and persuasion.
Look at someone like Steve Jobs—not everyone bought into his visions initially, but his presentations were legendary, and people are still talking about them in 2024. Startups don’t just run on caffeine; they operate on persuasion and belief in a shared vision and goal.
Chairman/Board Members
Board meetings aren’t always the most exhilarating, but as a chairperson, you’re responsible for steering the ship. Your words carry weight. Your public speaking ability isn’t just about providing clarity of thought; it’s about earning the trust of your fellow board members. You need to express empathy, but also assertiveness. If you step up to the challenge and control the room, you’ll have an easier time convincing members to support your decisions.
Secrets of Public Speaking
The real secret of public speaking is that it’s not just about what you say, but also your mindset. Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind about public speaking.
Your Audience is Rooting for You
The truth is that no one who is gathered to hear your presentation is judging you. Your audience does NOT want to witness a train wreck in slow motion. Instead, they’re rooting for you. Whether it’s a TV interview or public event, people want to listen, learn from you and enjoy themselves!
So, stop imagining them as being your judge and jury (and no, imagining them naked doesn’t work). Instead, think of them as supporters who want you to win. There’s a reason you were selected to present on a topic or deliver a corporate address. Smile, make eye contact and be open and approachable.
Your Audience Doesn’t Know Your Script
You’re halfway through your speech and—wait—did you forget your next word or thought? Cue the panic. But here’s the secret: your audience doesn’t know what’s supposed to come next in your presentation. If you skip a word or a phrase, no one will know unless you tell them.
Remember, you’re in control. Keep rolling. If you appear cool and confident, your audience won’t notice.
Failure is Fabulous
Here’s another secret most new speakers won’t admit you’re going to flub a word or experience a brain freeze for a moment. But that’s okay. Failure in public speaking isn’t the end of the world; it’s the beginning of growth. Simply embrace your mistake by admitting it or apologize. People will appreciate your honestly.
News Flash! Don’t Fake It Till You Make It
You’re not Steve Jobs. You’re not Tony Robbins or Michelle Obama. They are already taken, so just be YOU. Those legendary public speakers have their own style. Connecting with an audience is so much easier when you add your own personality. Being authentic is key to enhancing your work rather than detracting from it.
Rember to practice and then practice some more. Eventually, you’ll start developing your own speaking style that feels comfortable and is authentically you.
Storytelling
Let me tell you a story…those 5 words are public speaking gold! Humans are wired for stories, it’s how our brains work. From campfires to TED Talks, stories have always been the best way to connect with each other. Why? Because stories aren’t just about facts; they’re about emotion. People remember how you make them feel, not the specific points of your PowerPoint slides.
Perhaps it’s an anecdote relating to your topic. Sharing a simple story helps build trust, rapport, and engagement between you and your audience. Make your audience feel emotionally connected and they’ll remember your message.
Empathetic Speaking
Public speaking is a two-way street. You might be the one with the microphone, but it’s your audience that matters. So, speak to them, not at them. This means being empathetic. Think about their needs, what they’ll find most interesting about the topic you are presenting on. Connect to their emotions and consider what are they hoping to hear? How can your message help them?
Empathy doesn’t just make your speech better; it makes your audience trust and connect with you. You’re not just delivering information—you’re enhancing connection. And that’s the secret ingredient in public speaking.
Final Thoughts
Public speaking isn’t some mystical art reserved for extroverts or natural-born leaders. It’s a skill anyone can learn and master. By being real, owning your failures, connecting through stories, and practicing empathy, you’ll not only become a better speaker, but you’ll also become a better leader.
Reach out to Solv Communications if you have a public speaking engagement or media event and want to look and sound more confident. We’ve media trained some of the top brands across North America. We’re a team of former broadcasters and corporate strategic communicators who know how to help you communicate to inspire hearts and minds.
