What’s the difference between being a good speaker and a great public speaker?
I recently spoke with a tech executive. This person knew he was a good speaker, but he wanted to become a more memorable and more impactful speaker.
What’s the difference?
A good speaker is confident and conversational. They are knowledgeable about their topic and able to share it with others in ways people can understand.
Many of these traits come from either their personality or life experience.
But a great speaker—a memorable and impactful communicator—has gone further, to intentionally hone their speaking skills.
They take the time to craft a concise structure.
- They open their presentation with presence and immediately capture their audience’s attention
- They use a clear structure that keeps the audience engaged, with signposts along the way
- They build to a strong conclusion and call to action
They deliver a unique, memorable message that only they can say.
- If they’re delivering opening remarks at a conference, they’re not just repeating the mission statement of the organization. They’re talking about how they related to that mission through their own personal experience
They invest in a repeatable process they know works.
- They use notes effectively, with an outline to keep them on track
- They speak clearly, with presence, in a way that people can follow
- They use vocal variety that keeps people engaged
- They use eye contact that draws in everyone in the room
The result? Great speakers build trust with their audience, moving them to take action that produces concrete business results. They create a positive culture that motivates and retains top talent. They lead with their voice.
These traits come from training and practice, intentionality and focus.
Excellence doesn’t happen spontaneously; it happens with practice and feedback. In what ways are you investing in becoming a great speaker?