With years of experience conducting the Women in Tech Global Conference, we've had the privilege of engaging with approximately 3500 speakers from various backgrounds. Our interactions with seasoned speakers, such as Anu Bharadwaj (President at Atlassian), Asha Keddy (Former Corp VP at Intel), Jae Evans (CIO at Oracle), Grace Perez (VP, Chief Digital Program Officer at GE HealthCare) and many more, have given us valuable insights into the art of public speaking. Speaking is not just about conveying information; it's about inspiring and educating your audience. In this article, we've compiled the top 10 lessons shared by top-notch speakers, each offering a unique perspective on the craft of effective communication.
Authenticity Trumps Perfection:
Imagine yourself on the path to becoming a remarkable public speaker. Authenticity becomes your guiding light - it's about embracing your true self, not just technical perfection. The day you decide to be your most authentic self is when your speaking journey truly takes off. This shift reveals the immense power of authenticity in connecting with your audience. Your experiences and skills support your newfound authenticity, creating genuine connections that leave a lasting impact.
The Power of Slowing Down:
Speaking too quickly can overwhelm your audience. As one speaker realized, "I am a fast talker by nature - and when I got on a stage I talked even faster." Speaking slowly allows you to use the pace for emphasis and to give your audience time to digest information. Effective speakers employ deliberate pauses to create impact and engage their audience.
Storytelling Over Information Overload:
Inexperienced speakers often try to impress with an avalanche of facts and figures. However, as speakers mature, they realize that less is more. Sharing stories creates a more engaging and memorable presentation. A good story connects with the audience on an emotional level, ensuring your message is not only understood but also felt.
Establish Common Ground:
Connecting with your audience is crucial from the outset. To do this, start with common ground. Whether it's sharing personal experiences or relatable anecdotes, establishing a connection early on ensures that your audience remains engaged throughout your presentation.
The Silence of Engagement:
Not all audience reactions are immediate. It's easy to misinterpret a lack of response as disinterest. Over time, speakers learn that sometimes silence is a sign of active listening. Valuable feedback often reveals that the audience was deeply engaged, even if they didn't react outwardly.
Educating and Informing:
Top-notch speakers offer more than just inspiration; they serve as valuable sources of knowledge and information. Sharing expertise, practical tips, and insights add substance to their presentations, leaving the audience better informed and equipped to excel.
The Value of Rehearsal:
Practice makes perfect, and this is especially true for public speaking. Rehearsing a presentation multiple times ensures that you are well-prepared and confident. Seasoned speakers often spend considerable time rehearsing to deliver a flawless performance.
Keep It Simple and Foolproof:
Overly complicated presentations can lead to technical glitches and confusion. It's essential to prioritize simplicity in your visuals and avoid relying on complex animations or unreliable internet connections. A visually stunning, yet low-tech presentation ensures a smoother delivery.
Show Respect to Your Audience:
Respecting your audience means valuing their time, being honest, and showing a commitment to helping them. Acknowledging the trust they've placed in you to deliver valuable content is essential. Every speaker should prioritize this aspect of communication.
Continuous Improvement:
The best speakers are those dedicated to constant growth and improvement. They strive to make each presentation their best, continually refining their skills and techniques. This commitment to excellence sets them apart on the stage.
Conclusion:
Incorporating these ten lessons into your public speaking journey can elevate your skills and make you a top-notch speaker. Whether it's embracing authenticity, mastering the art of storytelling, or respecting your audience's time, each lesson contributes to your overall success as a speaker. Remember, public speaking is a lifelong learning journey, and those who stay committed to improvement are the ones who leave a lasting impact on their audiences.
Would you like to learn from one of the best speakers in the tech field? Get your early bird All Access VIP ticket today and make a step closer to polishing our personal presentation style.
