Top 5 Tips for Effective Public Speaking

No one relates to perfection; being human is beautiful.

Very early on in my career I found myself thrown into public speaking roles. I think I was 18 when I first had to speak in front of over 3000 people; I was so nervous. Even to this day I find it hard to sleep and eat before a public-speaking event. It is definitely not my natural place and I have had to learn, along the way, to do so in a manner I feel is worth the stretch-effort it takes for me.

When I first did a radio interview, I lamented to my father: “Dad, I sounded like such a dick!”

With a twinkle in his eye, he not-so-helpfully said: “don’t worry about it! Just wait until you do TV – then you’ll both look and sound like a dick.” (Excuse the language!)

Many executives and managers I coach have a similarly strong dislike of public speaking. Some feel they lack the skills, some get overcome with nerves, and others simply view it as an egoistic activity they would rather avoid. 

In my opinion, there is a time and a place for public speaking, which centres around Bernard Meltzer’s question: “is what you’re going to say true, kind, necessary or helpful?” If it ticks one of these boxes, then it’s at least worth considering. Then consider whether it is of value to your leadership intention to use a platform like public speaking to further a good message. If so, then you need to lean into the opportunity.   

Obviously, there will be times when it’s an opportunity to give another person the platform and, as leaders, that is a very valid consideration also. But, let this be  different to avoidance! I encourage leaders not to automatically bypass the opportunity but to consider speaking carefully for the value that a broad communication can make to the listeners if you use the opportunity wisely.

Here are my top tips for public speaking.

1. Have a sense of purpose

Know why you are speaking and find a worthy reason. For me, public speaking for the sake of recognition or applause is not a fulfilling-enough reason but, if I feel I have a cause that is worthy of broadcast, or I have something to impart that just might help the people listening, then I front up. I keep that purpose front and centre – and clearly remind myself of it in the moment before I speak. I draw strength from knowing that I am there for a great reason, and I believe this intention can be felt by my audience.

2. Establish only a few simple key messages to impart

Refine your talk into 3-5 short and snappy key messages that you want people to be left with. Repeat them – peppering them throughout your talk and the stories you are sharing. If you find yourself wandering, bring yourself back to these key points. You can write them on your hand, or on cards you carry with you, if you need to.

3. Visualisation helps

Play with visualisation. Imagine yourself delivering your speech. Imagine the impact you want to have, the responses you hope to receive, the impression you wish to leave and use your visualisation to practice ahead of the time you get up to speak.

4. Don’t be scared to be scared

So many people struggle with public speaking, and some of them may surprise you. I have coached some incredibly high-profile CEOs who frequent media events and come across cool and composed. Many of these people – behind the scenes – have had to learn tools and practice techniques to apply in the moment because, like you, they get nervous, scared and emotional – especially if they are speaking from the heart. And, to be honest, I personally feel this adds to the power of their broadcast because emotional sincerity can be felt.

5. Be yourself

If you’re not funny, don’t try to be. Some people are not meant to be stand-up comics so, impressive as these speakers are, they are unlikely to be your competition. Just be yourself. Speak from the heart. Make light of yourself. Don’t try to be perfect. I once read a book about first impressions and one of the key messages that stayed with me is that people like your foibles. If you trip, forget something, stumble on a word or even monumentally mess-up, the audience will bond with you so long as you don’t take yourself too seriously. Because, at the end of the day, its beautiful to be reminded that we are all human. 

If you are in a role where public speaking is asked of you, or if you feel you’d like a little help to build your skills or change your attitude around it, reach out. We need good broadcasts; it’s one of many fundamental skills of good leadership.

– Zoe Dryden