Mastering the Art of Public Speaking: Engaging Your Audience

How are you in front of an audience? Do you thrive on a “stage”? Struggle with nerves and anxiety or do ok, well enough to get by? There are many “stages” for this conversation, an actual one with a full audience, or this could apply to a boardroom, or even a meeting room, or Zoom call with your team. 

Whatever the level or audience, there are some key elements to hitting a home run each time

• Start with a Bang: Engage your audience from the start, get their attention through a relevant and compelling story, a surprising fact pertinent to your topic, or a thought-provoking question. Your opening or first impression is key to how the rest of the time goes. Be confident, make eye contact, and bring the focus to you. 
• Speak Their Language: Connect with your audience on their level, using language they understand and relate to. If you don’t have a niche and you speak to countless industries, meet them in the middle. Avoid the jargon jungle; simplicity is your best friend and will help your audience follow along and relate to you better.
• Keep It Light, Add Some Well-Placed Humor: A well-timed joke or a humorous anecdote can lighten the mood and create an instant connection. Laughter is the best way to win hearts and keep the energy in the room flowing. It is also a great way to bring an audience back to you if you have lost their attention for a beat.
• Be Engaging: Imagine this as a journey you take them on. Break the monotony with interactive elements, visuals, or audience questions. Get them involved in the conversation. Where appropriate, gamify the experience.
• End with Impact: Leave them with a powerful takeaway, a call to action, or an inspiring thought that lingers long after you’ve left the stage. Follow up with your audience and encourage them to connect with you or reach out with questions. 
• PRO Tip: Practice. Rehearse your talk or meeting agenda, know your materials inside and out so you can relax into the talk or conversation and be ready to adjust and pivot on the fly if you have to for any reason. This will come across as being authentic.

The key to mastering public speaking is practice and being genuine…the more you do it, the easier and more comfortable it is. And, if it still isn’t feeling that way, ask for help, talk to a mentor, trusted colleague, or advisor or even a speaking coach. To book a training session, click here to fill out our contact form. You’ve got this.