Step 7 in Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Don’t Worry About Reaching Everyone

Invariably, you’ll have some audience members more engaged than others. Don’t be thrown off by those crossed arms or side bar conversations.

It’s not your responsibility to be a molder of consensus or a seeker of validation but your duty to share your unique voice with those who want to hear it.

Focus on the people who are engaged. This will infuse your talk with a heightened sense of confidence as you navigate through your talking points.

Expend your energy cultivating greater support from those already onboard rather than those who don’t seem to be buying what you’re selling.

Just move on.

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Step 6 in Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Breathe and Hydrate

This sounds like a no-brainer, but when we’re nervous our muscles tighten up and we hold our breath. Take a few deep breaths and get the oxygen back to your brain so you can gradually relax your body. You can also practice taking quick short breaths if that works better.

Hydration is also key. Dry mouth can occur when the glands in the mouth are not working to produce enough saliva. Nervousness and stress are common triggers.

Water lubricates your joints and delivers important nutrients to your cells that keep you healthy and allow you to deliver with ENERGY.

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Step 5 in Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Slow Your Roll

We speak fast in everyday life but even faster when we’re nervous. Try talking slower than you think you need to. When you slow down you avoid alienating your audience.

Remember, they want to be included. Give them the chance.

Don’t be afraid to take a moment of silence, or even a breath before diving back in. Audiences are more forgiving than you think.

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Step 4 in Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Make Eye Contact

Using your “windows to the soul” effectively immediately personalizes your message and conveys you’re speaking to someone and not at them. You go from a speech to a conversation, which feels more engaging and personal.

Making eye contact also creates deeper connections and heightens the sense of trust in the room. It reminds the audience you’re there to give, not take.

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Step 3 in Becoming a Better Public Speaker

Begin When You’re Ready

A common mistake I see among less polished speakers is beginning when they’re not quite ready. As a result, they allow nerves to dictate the entirety of the speech.

Conversely, seasoned speakers begin when they’re set.

Use the walk on stage as a way to compose yourself. Take a deep breath, claim your space, and don’t be afraid to wait a moment before beginning. The benefits are twofold: you’ll be starting from a place of empowerment, while conveying poise to the audience. This instantly puts them at ease as well.

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Plus, I’d love to share my free Creativity Day Planner — a simple two -page template on building good daily habits.