Public Speaking: 9 Characteristics Of The Greats
There's more to speaking than sharing a few words. Here are the
top nine characteristics of public speakers that you can use too
1. Solid Content. Even a person lacking charismatic gifts can
develop solid content. Always share something the audience finds
valuable to their lives.
2. Humorous. It's hard to hate someone you laugh with. The best
speakers find a way to get people smiling early in the program.
It opens hearts and makes the group receptive. You don't have to
be hilarious, just humorous.
3. Organized. There's no excuse for rambling through a
presentation. Have your notes structured in way that keeps you
on pace and on target. Listeners should feel they received a
message that made sense and was easy to remember.
4. Approachable. Some speakers try to get in and get out as fast
as possible, but the audience likes to know the speaker is
available an approachable. One of the best ways to make a good
impression is to get to the event early and meet people as they
come in.
5. Authenticity. It's said that honest arrogance is preferred
over false humility. We all want to know people are being honest
with us and that what we see is what we get. Be true to yourself
and others by being the same around everyone. That way you don't
feel like one person in front of an audience and another person
at other times.
6. Growing. Great speakers continue to grow in the knowledge and
application of the craft. They don't rest when reaching a
particular level. Instead they continue to stretch and become
better.
7. Giving. The best in this profession give without expecting
return. Most big name speakers give anonymously to the charities
and organizations they cherish. This giving attitude in private
creates warmth and welcome in public.
8. Natural. Last night I actually watched BookSpan for the first
time. I've flipped by before and mostly viewed it as a cure for
insomnia. However, Walter Isaacson author of Benjamin Franklin
An American Life was speaking. Having read the book I wanted to
see how well he presented the material. He did a great job. I
got the impression that he would be the same off the podium as
he was in front of the microphone. A great example of natural
expression.
9. Passionate. Speaking transfers energy with words. The more
passion passes through the message the greater the chance of it
being remembered and applied. No one has ever said, "I sure hope
the speaker is boring." Instead they like to say things like,
"Wow! She sure was excited about her message."