Public speaking can be a daunting task, even for experienced speakers. To become a successful public speaker, there are a variety of skills and techniques that can be honed and practiced. In this blog, we'll take a look at 25 skills that every public speaker should have, in no particular order.
1. Confidence - Having confidence in yourself and your message is essential to delivering a successful speech.
2. Connection - Connecting with your audience through eye contact, body language, and storytelling is crucial to engaging them in your message.
3. Preparation - Thoroughly preparing and practicing your speech can help you feel more confident and ensure that you deliver your message effectively.
4. Authenticity - Being true to yourself and your message can help you connect with your audience on a deeper level and build trust.
5. Passion - Showing passion and enthusiasm for your topic can be contagious and inspire your audience to engage with your message.
6. Clarity - Delivering a clear and concise message can help your audience understand and remember your points.
7. Timing - Being aware of the time you have and pacing yourself accordingly can help you stay on track and deliver your message effectively.
8. Body language - Using confident and open body language can help you connect with your audience and emphasize your message.
9. Voice control - Mastering your voice and using it effectively can help you engage your audience and convey your message with impact.
10. Humor - Using appropriate humor can help you connect with your audience and keep them engaged and interested in your message.
11. Flexibility - Being flexible and adapting to unexpected situations can help you stay in control and deliver a successful speech.
12. Empathy - Showing empathy and understanding towards your audience can help you connect with them on a deeper level and build trust.
13. Knowledge - Having a deep understanding of your topic and being able to answer questions confidently can help you establish credibility with your audience.
14. Creativity - Using creative and innovative approaches to your speech can help you stand out and engage your audience in new and interesting ways.
15. Energy - Using high energy and enthusiasm can help you connect with your audience and keep them engaged throughout your speech.
16. Listening - Being an active listener and responding to your audience's needs and questions can help you establish a rapport with them and build trust.
17. Adaptability - Being adaptable and adjusting your message to fit your audience's needs can help you connect with them on a deeper level and ensure that your message resonates.
18. Confidence with technology - Being comfortable with using technology can help you deliver a successful speech and avoid technical difficulties.
19. Research - Conducting thorough research on your topic can help you deliver a well-informed and credible speech.
20. Emotional intelligence - Being aware of your own emotions and those of your audience can help you deliver a more effective and impactful speech.
21. Poise under pressure - Being able to maintain your composure and deliver a successful speech even in high-pressure situations can help you build credibility and establish trust with your audience.
22. Authenticity - Being true to yourself and your message can help you build a genuine connection with your audience and establish trust.
23. Visual aids - Using effective visual aids, such as slides or videos, can help you convey your message more clearly and engage your audience in new and interesting ways.
24. Creativity with language - Using creative language and storytelling techniques can help you make your message more engaging and memorable.
25. Confidence in silence - Knowing when to pause and allow for silence can help you emphasize important points and convey confidence and control to your audience.
In conclusion, these 25 skills are essential for any public speaker looking to deliver a successful and impactful speech. While some may come naturally to some speakers, others may require practice and deliberate effort. By focusing on developing these skills and practicing them regularly, any public speaker can improve their ability to engage and connect with their audience, deliver a clear and concise message, and ultimately achieve their desired outcome.
It's worth noting that while these skills are important, they are not the only factors that contribute to successful public speaking. Other factors, such as understanding your audience, choosing an appropriate speaking style, and selecting the right venue and equipment, can also play a crucial role in delivering a successful speech.
In addition, it's important to remember that public speaking is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Different speakers may have different strengths and weaknesses, and may need to adapt their approach to fit their individual style and personality. By understanding your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of your audience, you can develop a speaking style that is uniquely tailored to your needs and goals.
Finally, it's important to remember that public speaking is not just about delivering a message - it's also about connecting with your audience and building relationships. By focusing on building trust and establishing a rapport with your audience, you can create a positive and memorable experience that will leave a lasting impression.
In conclusion, public speaking can be a challenging and intimidating task, but with the right skills and techniques, anyone can become a successful public speaker. By focusing on developing key skills such as confidence, connection, preparation, and authenticity, and adapting your approach to fit your individual style and needs, you can deliver a clear and impactful message that resonates with your audience and achieves your desired outcome.
Mark Westbrook Public Speaking Coach Glasgow