Recently I was asked to host a leadership Q&A All Hands at work. I don’t LOVE public speaking, but I know how important these sessions are, so I said yes and started preparing. 

I’ve been in the audience for many of these sessions, and I have some colleagues that do this hosting very well. I thought about what worked well for the sessions I had previously enjoyed. 

After the session, I got some feedback that I ‘looked natural’ doing it, and people seemed to think that it went well.  So, I thought it might be an idea to write down how I prepare to speak in front of a large group. 

I've seen first-hand the impact that effective public speaking can have on an individual's career and personal life. Whether you're presenting to a room full of colleagues or giving a speech at a conference, being able to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently is crucial for success.

For many people, public speaking is daunting. You may feel nervous, anxious, or even paralysed by the thought of speaking in front of others. However, with some practice and preparation, anyone can become a great public speaker.

Here are my five steps to help you develop your public speaking skills:

Step 1: Master Your Content

The foundation of great public speaking is a deep understanding of your topic. The more familiar you are with your content, the more confident you'll feel when presenting it. Here’s how to get there:

  • Research Thoroughly: Dive deep into your subject. Know the facts, statistics, and stories that support your message. The more you know, the easier it will be to handle questions or unexpected challenges during your speech.
  • Simplify Your Message: Break down complex ideas into simple, digestible parts. Avoid jargon unless it’s absolutely necessary and be sure to define any terms your audience may not understand.
  • Create an Outline: Structure your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use bullet points to organise your thoughts and ensure your message flows logically.
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How I did it: I spent time looking at the slides that were prepared for the session, reading and understanding the questions that had been submitted for the panel and thinking about my introduction. I wrote an OUTLINE of my talk track but not ALL the words I would use.

Practical Tip: Practice explaining your content to a friend who knows nothing about the topic. If they can understand it, your audience will too.

Step 2: Practice, Practice, Practice

Repetition is key to mastering any skill, and public speaking is no different. The more you practise, the more your speech will feel like second nature. Here’s how to practise effectively:

  • Rehearse Aloud: Speak your entire presentation out loud as if you're already in front of an audience. This helps you get comfortable with the sound of your own voice and the rhythm of your speech.
  • Use a Mirror or Record Yourself: Watching yourself in a mirror can help you become aware of your body language. Alternatively, record yourself speaking and then review the recording to identify areas for improvement.
  • Simulate the Speaking Environment: Practice in the space where you'll be presenting, or create a similar environment at home. This can help reduce anxiety on the day of the event.
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How I did it: Once I had my outline, I ran through my talk track in my head and then out loud in a private room at work to make sure the phrasing was correct and I knew where to pause. After a few practices I could put my notes aside and get through without referring to them. 

Practical Tip: Time yourself during practice to ensure your speech fits within any time limits you’ve been given.

Step 3: Engage Your Audience

A great speech isn’t just about delivering content.  It’s also about connecting with your audience. Here are some ways to make that connection:

  • Start with a Hook: Grab your audience's attention from the start with a powerful quote, a surprising statistic, or a compelling story. This sets the tone and piques interest.
  • Make Eye Contact: Don’t just stare at your notes or slides. Look at your audience as you speak. Eye contact creates a personal connection and makes your audience feel involved.
  • Ask Questions or Invite Participation: Engage your audience by asking rhetorical questions or inviting responses. This keeps them active and invested in your speech.
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How I did it: We had pre agreed a soft question / icebreaker to start the session and introduce the Leadership Team. I then worked up an intro that contained a topical news fact that connected with the story. This allowed me to get a small laugh in the first minute that set the tone for what we were doing. 

Practical Tip: Tailor your content to your audience's interests and needs. The more relevant your message is to them, the more engaged they’ll be.

Step 4: Control Your Nerves

Even seasoned speakers get nervous, but the key is to manage those nerves effectively. Here’s some suggestions:

  • Breathe Deeply: Take deep breaths before and during your speech to calm your nerves. This helps slow your heart rate and keep your mind clear.
  • Visualise Success: Before stepping on stage, visualise yourself delivering a successful presentation. Imagine the audience reacting positively. This mental rehearsal can boost your confidence.
  • Channel Nervous Energy: Turn your nervousness into enthusiasm. Use the adrenaline rush to energise your delivery and engage your audience. 
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How I did it: I was nervous, but reminded myself that most people in the room were interested in my success. The LT on stage wanted me to host the event well, and the audience were friendly and wanted a good session. Once I had that in mind, it made my time in the room easier. Tactically, I arrived 30 minutes before I was due to speak and spent a little time walking around the room, deciding where I would stand and checking that the clicker worked for slides.

Practical Tip: Arrive early to your speaking venue. Familiarize yourself with the space, test any equipment, and take some time to relax before you go on stage.

Step 5: Reflect and Improve

Public speaking is a skill you can continually improve. After each speaking opportunity, take time to reflect on your performance:

  • Seek Feedback: Ask a trusted friend or colleague for constructive feedback. What worked well? What could be improved? Use this feedback to refine your approach for next time.
  • Review Your Performance: If you recorded your speech, watch it back. Note your strengths and areas where you can improve, such as pacing, clarity, or body language.
  • Set Goals for Next Time: Based on your reflection, set specific goals for your next presentation. Whether it’s improving your eye contact or reducing filler words, focus on one or two aspects to work on.
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How I did it: I asked some trusted people for their feedback on what worked, and if there was anything I could improve. I also watched back on a video stream; I didn’t enjoy that - but it was good to see what worked. 

Practical Tip: Keep a journal of your public speaking experiences. Track your progress and celebrate your improvements, no matter how small.

Conclusion

Great public speaking isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being prepared, authentic, and engaging. 

By mastering your content, practising and then connecting with your audience, and reflecting on your performance, you can develop the skills needed to be comfortable in a big room. 

Remember, every great speaker starts as a beginner - with a desire to improve and a commitment to practise. Remind yourself that everyone in the room WANTS you to be successful, it isn't in anyone's interest for you to fail.

So, take these steps and add your own, and soon you’ll find yourself thriving in front of an audience.

If you have any other suggestions for great public speaking - feel free to leave a comment below.

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