25/08/2024
As a public speaker of many years, I assist and coach professionals (and I mean professionals) in the art of good public speaking. Firstly, one has to establish one’s credibility. By that I mean one’s reputation and decorum precedes you. Therefore, it is important that you maintain a good reputation (and possess one in the first place).
Secondly, it is vital that your speech has structure and a good narrative. After all, audiences are by no means gullible (at least some of them anyway) and they have a keen ability to read between the lines.
Thirdly, check all your previous speeches especially if these exist online. The worst mistake that you can make is to contradict previous speeches, culminating in a loss of credibility. You don’t want to go there.
Fourthly, you need to be authentic and this alludes to your ability to craft a compelling narrative and not one that will create a sandstorm today and be lost in the wind tomorrow.
Speeches need not be long-winded, but it should be concise without any undue repetition.
The key determining factor is that the audience must be able to discern your message clearly. This involves presenting the content in such a manner that it makes sense and it is supported by solid facts.
After all, only credible audiences are drawn to credible topics and equally credible speakers.
