9 proven tips to ace your next public speaking engagement

By Sandra Balogun, CPA, CISA

Public speaking is a skill that strikes fear into the hearts of many. The mere thought of standing before a crowd, vulnerable to scrutiny and judgment, can send shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned professionals. Yet, it is a skill crucial for success in many aspects of life, particularly in business and professional development.

I recently found myself thrust into the spotlight, tasked with sharing my insights and experiences with a large external audience. While I had prior experience with public speaking within my firm, this specific occasion was markedly different. It was my inaugural foray into addressing a diverse audience in a professional setting, and it demanded a unique experience. I've distilled key insights that not only aided me but also enhanced my overall public speaking abilities.

1. Cultivate the right mindset

Public speaking, like any skill, improves with practice. Recognize that even seasoned speakers admit to experiencing nervousness before taking the stage. Embrace this as a natural part of the process, and prior to your speech, practice. Listen to established speakers and adopt positive self-talk to prime your mind and body for the task at hand. Remember, the audience consists of fellow humans who empathize with the vulnerability of public speaking.

2. Dress for success

The attire we choose significantly impacts our confidence levels. Opt for attire that is not only appropriate for the event but also comfortable and empowering. Dressing well can elevate your self-assurance, allowing you to exude confidence during your presentation.

3. Understand your audience

Before stepping onto the stage, learn about your audience's demographics, interests and industry background. Tailor your speech to resonate with their expectations and concerns. If possible, familiarize yourself with the questions likely to arise during any discussion. Anticipating and addressing these queries demonstrates preparedness and enhances audience engagement.

4. Rehearse

Practice, both solo and with a trusted confidant, is instrumental in refining your delivery. Rehearse your speech in front of a mirror to gauge your body language and facial expressions. Solicit feedback from peers or mentors to identify areas for improvement. Additionally, consider recording yourself to assess tone, pacing and articulation. Each rehearsal iteration enhances your fluency and confidence on stage.

5. Embrace authenticity

Authenticity fosters genuine connection with your audience. Strive to infuse your speech with personal anecdotes, insights and emotions. Share relatable experiences that humanize your message and captivate the audience’s attention. Embrace vulnerability – it can foster empathy and resonate with your audience.

6. Harness visual aids (if the occasion permits)

Visual aids, when used judiciously, can amplify the impact of your message. Incorporate slides, videos or infographics to compliment your verbal delivery. Ensure that visual elements are clear, concise and relevant to your key points. Use them as a tool to reinforce concepts and enhance audience comprehension.

7. Maintain composure

During your presentation, prioritize maintaining composure and poise, even in the face of unforeseen challenges. Embrace pauses to collect your thoughts and emphasize key points. Remember to breathe deeply to alleviate nervousness and maintain a steady pace. Embrace any unexpected hiccups with grace, demonstrating adaptability and professionalism.

8. Engage the audience

Foster a dynamic rapport with your audience by inviting interaction and participation. Encourage questions, comments or anecdotes that enrich the dialogue and foster a sense of community. Incorporate storytelling techniques to captivate attention and convey complex ideas in an accessible manner.

9. Reflect after your presentation

Following your speech, engage in reflective practice to glean insights for future improvements. Seek constructive feedback from peers, organizers and audience members. Identify strengths to celebrate and areas for growth to address in subsequent presentations. Embrace each speaking opportunity as a learning experience that contributes to your ongoing development as a communicator.

Public speaking is a multifaceted skill that can be honed through diligent practice, preparation and self-reflection. By cultivating the right mindset, understanding your audience and embracing authenticity, you can deliver impactful presentations that resonate with listeners. Remember, each speaking engagement is an opportunity for growth and refinement, paving the way for continued success on the public speaking stage.

Reprinted with permission from the Massachusetts Society of CPAs.

Sandra Balogun, CPA, CISA, is a manager at Centri Business Consulting, LLC. Contact her at auduplusandra@ gmail.com