7 tips for speaking with confidence and influence

I’m going to start off by asking you to think of the key traits of your favourite hero. What key traits do they emulate? 

Most will have a clear vision, perseverance, authenticity and most importantly, vulnerability. These characteristics make a character likeable, and someone that others can identify with and relate to. These are the characteristics to remember when you’re preparing for your next public speaking opportunity. Whether it’s a new client pitch, an industry presentation or even an internal review meeting, speaking with confidence and humility will enable you to deliver a compelling message that will resonate with others. 

From over 30 years’ experience working with keynote and motivational speakers across a range of industries, I’ve found that the ‘storytelling of business’ doesn’t change. From sales to marketing, branding to communications, all aspects of business hinge on storytelling and effective communication. So, with that in mind, here are my seven tips for delivering your next public speaking opportunity with confidence and influence. 

1. Preparation and rehearsal

The importance of proper preparation and rehearsal cannot be overstated. 

With regular practice, you will naturally gain confidence in your speaking ability. You will also be infinitely more confident in your delivery when able to recall your speech from memory with ease, allowing you to focus on your delivery rather than remembering lines. With your speech committed to memory, there is no need to make yourself vulnerable to slip-ups - improvisational sections are worth avoiding if suffering from stage fright, as they only provide opportunity for mistakes.

It’s also valuable to conduct your rehearsals in such a way that is as close to the real thing as possible. Don’t practise in your pyjamas; rehearse under performance-like conditions, preparing you for the real thing as best you can.

If you’re unable to commit the entire speech to memory, place most emphasis on learning the beginning and ending. By nailing the introduction, you can set the tone and the expectations of the audience. The middle of the speech can be loosely structured by a series of bullet points, and finally rounded off by a comprehensive and well-rehearsed ending. Even if you didn’t manage to cover everything you had planned, a slick outro will leave audience members on the right note and tie up any loose ends.

2. Breathing techniques

If you suffer from stage fright, your breathing will become rapid and shallow. Apart from the discomfort this creates in you physically and mentally, your audience may notice you struggle with speech anxiety, which could lessen their confidence in you and your message.

As obvious as it may seem, don’t forget to breathe when delivering your speech. Developing an awareness of your breathing calms your nerves, and understanding the physical changes you can make to affect your nervousness is vital in controlling your anxiety. The calming and centred frame of mind you put yourself in will also help you learn how to stay fully focused when speaking. This will help you come across as more professional, poised, and present. 

3. Minimise excessive gestures

Small movements convey economy in your speech. But they should be deliberate as opposed to distracting. You can use your hands in a way that conveys confidence. Use your hands to confidently punctuate a point you are trying to make. For instance, if you are presenting a new business pitch to a client and there is a preferred marketing approach which you know will help them hit their goals and KPI’s, strike downward with your hands to nail your belief in that truth. 

This technique is effective when used — but not overused. So reserve it for summarising the points within your presentation so it makes a lasting impression.

4. Overcomplicated vocabulary 

Simple and concise language delivers your message with more clarity, while implying understanding of the subject. Adopting a slow delivery is a simple method to garner respect and draw focus. Avoid rushing - speaking at pace runs the risk of slip-ups, and a more reserved, considered approach creates the impression that every word is thought-out and meaningful.

5. Curate the most important ideas first and provide context

I’ve found throughout the years that bringing audiences new perspectives on the things that fascinate and inspire you will help you gain buy in and engagement from your audience. These might include trends, technology, automation, groundbreaking commercial disruptors or social and economic shifts.  They will see, and feel, your passion for the story you’re conveying, so make sure to tie it all in with the core message of your pitch or presentation. 

6. The power of colour 

Whether you’re presenting a commercial update to your senior management team or taking to the stage to present an industry talk, colour can play an important role when it comes to presenting. Colours evoke different emotions and moods; warm colours like red and orange can convey energy and enthusiasm, while cool colours like blue and green can create a sense of calmness or professionalism.

If you’re speaking at an event, make sure to contact the event organiser and inquire about the colour of the stage setup. It's possible that there might be a curtain or backdrop that matches your chosen colour, causing you to blend in and become less visible. This serves as an excellent demonstration of exercising "conscious control" over your appearance, whether it's virtual or in person.

7. Body language 

Make sure to pay attention to your body language. Stand tall, maintain good posture, and make eye contact with the audience you’re speaking to. Use expressive gestures and facial expressions to convey your message effectively. A confident posture can enhance your overall presence, confidence and influence.

Tom McLaughlin is the owner and co-founder of keynote speaker bureau JLA, a specialist agency which books speakers, presenters and performers for corporate and public sector client events.