In the realm of public speaking, whether after-dinner speaking, motivational speaking, or keynote speaking, the artistry lies not only in the content, but also in the embodiment of certain qualities that elevate a speaker from good to great.
We’ve already spoken about some of the key qualities public speakers require, including expertise, professionalism and confidence, and whilst these undoubtedly holds significance, the essence of a truly remarkable speaker transcends mere knowledge. In this guide, we delve into the personal traits that define greatness in public speaking, and what exactly you should look for when booking a speaker for your next event.
Looking Beyond Experience
Whilst expertise is a critical component of speechmaking, with a deep understanding of the relevant topic helping to bolster credibility and navigate complex topics with ease, in order to truly engage with your audience, a great speaker must possess a repertoire of additional qualities.
One often overlooked aspect of public speaking is the authenticity of the speaker. A genuine speaker who comes from a place of truthfulness can more successfully breed a connection with the audience and foster a meaningful rapport with listeners, relating on a human level and conveying the sincerity behind the words.
Hand in hand with authenticity is empathy. Similarly, an empathetic speaker who can both pick up and react to the audience’s emotions and aspirations can tailor their message to resonate further, creating a more memorable experience that the audience will take with them long after the event is over.
Additionally, a speaker should be both versatile and adaptable, able to adeptly adjust their tone, pace, and delivery not only when planning their speech, but when reacting to the audience’s response to the moment. An adaptable public speaker is a valuable asset that can elevate the tone of your event and ensure an optimal experience.
Tailoring Speaking Engagements
While certain qualities remain universally essential, different speaking contexts demand nuanced approaches tailored to specific objectives and audiences. For example, After-dinner speaking calls for wit, charm, and spontaneity. A great after-dinner speaker possesses the ability to entertain and amuse, infusing the occasion with levity and laughter while delivering poignant reflections or anecdotes. For advice on booking after-dinner speakers, check out our guide on our top after-dinner speakers available for events through The Gordon Poole Agency
On the other hand, business speaking demands clarity, authority, and professionalism. A great business speaker communicates with precision, distilling complex ideas into actionable insights while exuding confidence and credibility. Business speaking often requires a balance of persuasion and pragmatism, with a focus on driving tangible outcomes. Our blog contains further advice on booking business speakers.
Similarly, a motivational speaker is stronger when they can connect and empathise with the audience, creating a relationship between them that helps drive their message home. Our guide to the top motivational speakers will provide you with more information on the various qualities that make a fantastic motivational speaker.
The Overlapping Qualities of Great Speakers
Despite the diverse demands of various speaking contexts, several qualities overlap, forming the cornerstone of greatness in public speaking. From authenticity to adaptability, charisma to clarity, great speakers embody a blend of traits that elevate their craft to new heights, leaving a mark on every audience they address.
For more help and advice on finding the right speaker for your next event, why not speak to a member of The Gordon Poole Agency’s team? We’d be happy to help support you in making your event a success!