What sets a great speaker apart from the rest? Is it charisma, eloquence, or a profound knowledge of rhetoric? While these qualities can certainly contribute to a speaker’s success, there’s much more to it. In this article, I will dissect the elements that make a speaker truly exceptional and memorable.
1. High Energy: The Powerhouse of Engagement
A great speaker radiates high energy. They don’t just speak; they electrify the room. Their enthusiasm is contagious, pulling the audience into their world. High energy isn’t just about speaking loudly; it’s about passion, conviction, and a genuine love for the topic.
2. Stories About Famous People: Relatability and Inspiration
Using anecdotes about famous individuals adds a relatable and inspiring dimension to your speech. Stories of triumph over adversity, tales of famous figures who faced challenges, and came out victorious, resonate deeply with the audience.
3. Relatability: Bridging the Gap
Audiences appreciate speakers who understand their struggles. Relatability lies in addressing everyday challenges. For instance, “Has anyone here had a stressful encounter with their boss?” This immediately connects the speaker with the audience, fostering a sense of unity.
4. Energizing Activities: Making Your Audience Shake
Great speakers incorporate interactive elements. Encourage your audience to dance, shake, or engage in physical activities that align with your message. These actions invigorate the crowd and embed your message in their memory.
5. Immediate Implementation: Practical Takeaways
Offer practical techniques that the audience can implement immediately. When people leave your speech armed with actionable advice, they’re more likely to remember you and your message.
6. Avoid Text-Heavy Slides: Speak, Don’t Read
Reading from slides is a surefire way to lose your audience. Instead, use slides as visual aids, with concise bullet points, while you provide the context and insight. Engage with your audience, not your screen.
7. Tactile Engagement: Making It Personal
Connect with your audience on a tactile level. Offer handshakes, hugs, or even brief massages if appropriate. Physical contact can create a powerful bond.
8. Displaying Emotions: Mirror Your Message
Express your emotions authentically. Whether you’re angry, happy, excited, or full of love, your emotional state should align with your message. Authenticity is magnetic.
9. Audience Participation: Bringing People Onstage
Invite members of the audience to share their experiences or participate in demonstrations. This not only engages your audience but also showcases real-world examples.
10. Music and Dancing: Adding Rhythm to Your Message
Incorporate famous music into your presentation. Dancing to the rhythm of well-known tunes can be both entertaining and energizing.
11. Applauding and Smiling: Positive Reinforcement
Don’t hesitate to applaud yourself during your speech. Smile often. These small acts create a positive atmosphere and make you more relatable.
12. Humor and Real Talk: Breaking Barriers
Humor can break down barriers and make your audience more receptive. Sometimes, a well-timed joke or the use of colloquial language can make your speech more engaging.
13. Slide Signatures: Personal Touch
Sign your slides with your name. It’s a subtle but effective way to brand your presentation and make it uniquely yours.
14. Audience Interaction: “If You Agree, Say Yes”
Encourage audience participation by asking them to vocalize agreement. Simple prompts like “If you agree, say yes” keep your audience engaged and responsive.
15. Movement and Engagement: Walk Amongst the Audience
Don’t confine yourself to the stage. Walk among the audience. This not only breaks the monotony but also fosters a deeper connection.
16. Authenticity over Perfection: Embrace Imperfection
The most captivating speakers are those who embrace their imperfections. You don’t have to be perfect; you have to be real. Audiences connect with authenticity, not an unattainable ideal.
The art of being a great speaker is a multifaceted endeavor. It’s about connecting with your audience on a profound level, engaging their minds and hearts. It’s about being yourself, embracing imperfections, and sharing stories that resonate. By mastering these elements, you can become a speaker who not only informs but inspires, leaving a lasting impact on your audience.
Hope you enjoyed reading it! Looking forward to your comments and feedback.
Very truly yours,
ILona B. Schukina