We all want to become better public speakers.
Stepping onto a big stage is only the beginning; truly commanding it is where the transformation happens. Here are three insightful tips, from award winning transformational speaker, Tricia Brouk, that are designed to elevate your public speaking skills, guiding you toward realizing your full potential as the compelling speaker you’re destined to become.
1. Embrace the Moment: The Power of the Drop-In
This is a phrase in the surfing world. Dropping In signifies the pivotal moment of committing fully to the wave. In public speaking, this means immersing yourself entirely in your message and delivery. Ask yourself: Are distractions like TV, emails, or smartphones diluting your focus? Imagine the depth of connection and productivity achievable by dedicating your undivided attention to the task at hand.
When you’re at home writing your talk, is the TV on?
Are you checking emails while doing research about your talk?
When you’re out with friends, do you keep checking your phone?
What would happen if you decided to drop-in wholeheartedly – would you have more productive workdays? Would you create more intimacy in your relationships? What if you focus on exactly what you’re doing, in the moment, and engage fully with those around you?
When you step onto the stage with complete engagement, prepared to give your all without attachment to the outcome, you liberate yourself from the fear of failure. This mindset not only enhances your stage presence but also enriches your life with more meaningful interactions and achievements.
If you decide to drop in and engage, you will ride that wave every single time.
2. Be Passionate and Authentic On Stage
The essence of compelling public speaking lies in vulnerability and authenticity. Share your stories of challenges, failures, and personal growth. Such honesty not only endears you to your audience but also establishes a genuine connection..
Let down your guard and show your true self through your heart. When you stop trying to be someone you think the audience wants you to be, and just start standing in your truth, your audience will value that authenticity.
The National Social Anxiety Center reports that people fear public speaking more than death, but there are are no known reports of anyone dying while public speaking.
Remember: the audience wants you to succeed. They are there for you. The want to hear what you have to say. They believe in your idea, which is why they are in the audience in the first place. So be unafraid when taking the stage.
3. Master Your Body Language On Stage
Yes, body language matters. Recognize that non-verbal communications are often stronger than verbal communications. If you are pacing and agitated while on stage, the audience will be agitated, too. On the other hand, if you are calm and grounded, you are going to put the audience at ease, allowing them to take it what you have to say.
Gestures and physicality can absolutely play a role in getting across your message, particularly when it involves dramatic content. But something that people often forget is that stillness is highly effective. When you choose to be still, what you’re saying lands on the audience hard. Stillness is a movement choice that has a lot of impact.
Looking for more public speaking tips? Check out Tricia’s YouTube channel for her tips, tricks and techniques in the art of public speaking. Tricia Brouk is an award-winning director, writer, producer and public speaking coach. As an expert in the art of public speaking, she puts speakers on TED Talks, TEDx and other big stages. She also hosts The Big Talk, an award-winning podcast on public speaking.
