How to win hearts as a Speaker
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Hello Reader, Do you remember the time when you wanted to give a speech? Did you care people liked you? The honest answer is that is something every speaker wishes. I worked with a leader who missed being the friend everyone could talk to. With leadership came technical responsibilities, difficult decisions, and uncomfortable announcements. Too friendly, and they worried about losing authority. Too serious, and they sounded uncaring. So they kept things factual and left emotion out. People read that distance as indifference. Most of us want to be liked when we speak, however confidently we say otherwise. On stage, we’re exposed. Communication is mostly one-way, and people can’t always check the intention behind our words. Our reluctance to show ourselves can hide the care we actually feel. Here are five ways to build that connection, even during a difficult speech.
When asking for action, be clear: “Our next step is…” or “Please bring your questions to Friday’s meeting.” We often reverse this: a cold opening followed by a hesitant “I think perhaps we should…” Warmth and authority can coexist. 2. Let your expression match your message. A natural smile at the right moment lets people see your warmth. Difficult news deserves an expression that acknowledges its weight. Forced humour or gestures can make you harder to trust. Give people a chance to read what you feel. 3. Stop being the hero—or victim—of every story. Are you always saving the day or being misunderstood? Sometimes, be the observer, the learner, or the person who needed help. Give others credit. Your audience deserves a role beyond being rescued by you. 4. Respond to the room. If people are worried about their jobs, acknowledge that before explaining the strategy. Notice confusion. Pause. Leave room for questions. More information won’t automatically make people feel understood. 5. Make your effort visible. Twenty people giving you five minutes means 100 minutes of their lives. Prepare accordingly. “I was too busy to prepare” is a poor thank-you. Afterwards, give people your attention—even a brief conversation deserves your presence. News from my side- Public speaking academy Over the past month, I’ve been building my dream: a public speaking academy through Method in Madness. It goes live in a couple of weeks, and I’m very excited. Our next cohort starts in the first week of November, with opportunities to practise and learn through group conversations. If you’d like to join or help shape it, let me know. |
Change Your Story
Banker, Author and change maker
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