My Recipe for Public Speaking Success

My Recipe for Public Speaking Success

Public speaking is an art – but it is not a one-size-fits-all skill. Over the years, I’ve learned that everyone’s journey is different, and so is their recipe for success. Here are some reflections and practical lessons I hope will inspire your own path.

1. You Are It

First and foremost, remember this: you are sufficient. You already have everything within you to become the speaker you aspire to be, even when your surroundings tell you otherwise. Believing in yourself is the first and most important step. Your authenticity is your strength.

2. Learn and Practice Make Perfect

One approach I find powerful is to find a role model – someone whose speaking style you admire – and emulate their tone, speech patterns, and choice of words.

But don’t stop there. Embrace the Japanese concept of Shu-Ha-Ri:

  • Shu (守) – Imitate: Learn the fundamentals by following your mentor closely.
  • Ha (破) – Adapt: Start to break away, integrate your understanding, and experiment.
  • Ri (離) – Innovate: Become the master of your own unique style.

In public speaking, this means start by learning from others, gradually build your personal voice, and ultimately speak with confidence as your authentic self.

3. It’s Not About ‘What’ but ‘How’

Someone once told me, “It’s not about what you say, but how you say it.”

Communication is nuanced. From strategic framing to vocabulary choices, there are countless techniques out there. Some will resonate with you, while others may not. Learning is about picking what works for you, practising relentlessly, and refining continuously.

Here are some tips that have worked for me:

  • Organise your speech clearly.
  • Build genuine connections with your audience.
  • Avoid jargon unless your audience shares the same professional language.
  • Validate understanding by checking in and using relatable examples.
  • Use metaphors, stories, and creative approaches to engage and inspire.

4. Organise Your Presentation Effectively

Start with POWER:

  • Purpose – Why are you speaking?
  • Outcome – What do you and your audience want to achieve?
  • What’s in it for them? – Why should they care?
  • Engagement – How will you keep them involved?
  • Roles & Responsibilities – What do you need from yourself and others for success?

Then, structure your main topics under a clear thesis. Enhance your delivery with pictures, metaphors, and stories to make it memorable. Rehearse and refine until you feel confident and fluid.

Finally, deliver your presentation as if you are talking to friends – with warmth, confidence, and humour.

5. Listen First

Public speaking is never just about talking. It is about listening actively to your audience – observing their energy, responses, and body language. What are they telling you? Boredom? Confusion? Curiosity? Anxiety?

Use your empathy and flexibility to adapt in real time. This responsiveness is what transforms a presentation into a meaningful conversation.

6. Less is More

This is a principle I continue to remind myself of. I naturally love explaining things in detail and telling people exactly what to do. But often, it is more powerful to leave space for people to find their own answers.

When your audience discovers insights themselves, they truly own the inspiration and takeaways, and their motivation to act becomes far stronger.

Final Thoughts

We are all learning and advancing our speaking skills – from novice to apprentice, to master, and eventually mentor. Everyone’s journey is unique.

Find your path. Practise relentlessly. Refine continuously. And above all, remember: you are already it.