I remember the feeling like it was yesterday. I was standing backstage, wireless headset mic hooked up and could see the current speaker doing their talk.
I was about to walk onto a red dot in an auditorium of over 1000 people to deliver my first TEDx talk.
Nerves were getting to me, and I was sipping on some water to zone in and block out the noise.
As I looked to the side of the curtains, I could see hundreds of faces amongst massive white blinding lights.
The speaker concludes, they say my intro, and before I know it, the MCs say, “Welcome, Chris Wilson, to the stage!”
My heart was beating fast, and I went across the stage smiling and walking out onto the red dot, ready to tell my story.
Public speaking can be a nerve-wracking experience for many, but anyone can become an engaging and confident speaker with the right approach.
Did I think I was ready to speak on stage to over 1000 listeners and potentially a worldwide TED audience? Absolutely not.
Just a year earlier, I wasn’t sure about accepting an invite to speak to a school of 100 people…
I’ve now been fortunate enough to speak to people from all over, at different stages, in different places, and in different companies.
And they all have one thing in common—public speaking can be tough!
Whether you're presenting at a conference, giving a speech at a wedding, or simply speaking up in a meeting, here are 11 tips to help you improve your public speaking skills.
Understanding your audience is crucial.
Research who they are, what their interests are, and what they expect from your speech.
Tailoring your content to their needs and preferences will make your presentation more relevant and engaging.
Preparation is key to any successful speech.
Outline your main points, structure your speech logically, and practice it multiple times.
Familiarity with your material will boost your confidence and help you deliver a smoother presentation.
Your opening sets the tone for your speech.
Begin with a powerful quote, a surprising fact, or a compelling story to grab your audience's attention.
A strong opening makes your audience want to listen to more.
Visual aids, such as slides or props, can enhance your message and help illustrate your points.
Ensure they are clear, relevant, and not overly complicated. Remember, they should support your speech, not overshadow it.
Interaction with your audience can make your speech more dynamic and memorable.
Ask questions, encourage participation, and make eye contact. Engaging with your audience makes them feel involved and keeps their attention.
Have 2 minutes? Check out my 2024 speaker reel!
How you say something is often more important than what you say.
Work on your tone, pace, and body language.
Practice speaking slowly and clearly, and use gestures to emphasize key points. Record yourself to identify areas for improvement.
It's natural to feel nervous before speaking in public.
To manage your nerves, practice breathing exercises, visualize a successful presentation, and focus on positive thoughts.
Remember, a bit of nervous energy can be beneficial—it shows you care.
Authenticity resonates with audiences.
Be yourself, share personal stories or anecdotes, and speak from the heart.
Genuine speakers are more relatable and can build a stronger connection with their audience.
Sometimes, things go differently than planned.
Be prepared to adapt to changes, whether technical difficulties or unexpected questions.
Staying flexible and maintaining your composure will show your professionalism and resourcefulness.
Constructive feedback is invaluable for improving your public speaking skills.
After your speech, ask for feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors.
Identify your strengths and areas for improvement, and use this feedback to refine your skills.
Public speaking is a skill that can always be improved.
Attend workshops, read books on public speaking, and watch speeches by great speakers.
Continuous learning and practice will help you become a more effective and confident speaker over time.
Joining a group like Toastmasters International can provide a supportive environment in which to practice your skills regularly.
I spoke at Toastmasters in my city for nearly a year before I began to give talks elsewhere.
Every week, I would practice, practice, practice (in person with real human beings).
These groups offer constructive feedback, opportunities to speak on various topics, and a community of individuals dedicated to improving their public speaking abilities.
Regular practice and feedback from a diverse audience can accelerate your speaking growth.
Improving your public speaking skills takes time, effort, and dedication.
Knowing your audience, preparing thoroughly, engaging with your listeners, and seeking continuous improvement can help you become a more confident and compelling speaker.
Remember, the more you practice, the better you'll get, so keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and embrace every opportunity to speak in public.
Looking for a speaker for an upcoming event or conference?
Learn more about hiring me to speak here!
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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