A mindset for public speaking

My mindset doesn't work for everyone, but I've seen it work for many:

"Stop presenting to an audience, start talking to people."

Great speakers don’t just 'present' their stuff. They talk to people. At least, that's how they make it feel for the audience. You know those good presenters who just seem present, passionate and engaging? That's what I strive for.

My favorite techniques to support this mindset:

1. Instead of scanning the crowd, focus on one person at a time. Look them in the eye for a full sentence before moving to the next person*. 👀

2. Ask more questions. Just like you would in normal conversation. Use rhetorical questions if you're afraid to lose control. ❓

It feels weird at first (to yourself, but not to them), yet the effect is powerful:

The people you look at and ask questions to, feel personally engaged. The rest of the audience sees you making real connections. This creates a positive feedback loop.

Try it. It’s one of the easiest ways to become a more charismatic speaker in my opinion.


* A bit more about point 1.

Stop presenting to an audience, start talking to people. Great speakers don’t just “present” their stuff. They talk to people. One technique that helps me a lot: Instead of scanning the crowd, focus on one person at a time. Look them in the eye for a full sentence before moving to the next person.

It feels weird at first, but the effect is powerful: The person you look at feels personally engaged. Meanwhile, the rest of the audience sees you making real connections.

Try it. It’s one of the best ways to become a more charismatic speaker, and also helps you 'talk to people'.