In our years of experience here at the Gordon Poole Agency, there’s one thing that we know for certain – that there is no one way to be a great public speaker. Great speakers possess a unique set of qualities and skills that captivate audiences, leaving a lasting impression, but these skills might differ depending on what type of speaker somebody is.
In this guide, we’ll delve into what makes a great speaker and explore the various traits required for different types of speaking engagements, whether that be an after-dinner speaker at a charity gala or a business speaker giving a keynote speech. We’ll also highlight some exceptional speakers who embody these characteristics. You might be surprised by how these skills overlap!
What Makes a Great Speaker?
Depending on the purpose of the event and the unique strengths of the speaker, what makes them fantastic might be difficult to pinpoint. Whilst some may be renowned for their persuasive techniques, others may be more well-known for their witty anecdotes or inspiring tales of heroism in the face of adversity. However, there are several key traits exemplified by the speakers we represent that we think are essential for anybody looking to make a career out of public speaking.
Confidence is the cornerstone of effective public speaking. Great speakers exude self-assuredness, which instantly engages the audience. A confident speaker believes in their message and themselves, and this conviction shines through in their delivery. Additionally, the speaker should be passionate about the topic at hand. Genuine excitement for the subject matter is contagious. Great speakers are deeply invested in what they are saying, and their enthusiasm resonates with the listeners.
When it comes to speaking techniques, a strong public speaker knows not to pack their presentation with complicated jargon. The ability to convey complex ideas in a simple and understandable manner is a skill that few possess. Clear language and a well-structured, logical narrative make it easier for the audience to follow and understand what you are trying to say. However, not all communication is verbal. Your body language plays an important role in how the audience perceives the speaker. Emphasise key points and connect with the audience by utilising non-verbal cues, such as gestures, eye contact, and posture.
Above all, though, what sets a great speaker apart from a very good one lies in their connection with the audience. Understanding and relating to the needs of those listening is vital, and a talented speaker is able to tailor their message according to their audience in order to create memorable, enjoyable moments that leave a lingering impression.
Finding Common Ground
With these general traits in mind, it’s time to delve deeper into the specific skills each type of speaker needs to be successful in their niche.
For an after-dinner speaker, entertainment is the name of the game. Typically, but not always, characterised by their light-hearted tone and wit, great after-dinner speakers have a knack for humour and connecting with their audience on a personal level. To find the best after-dinner speaker for your next event, check out our blog article on top after-dinner speakers.
However, our expert business speakers require a different set of skills. Great business speakers are concise, focused, and persuasive. Their job is to present fresh ideas and share their knowledge of their industry to help others improve their own operations. They need to be informative, but still keep their audience interested. If you’re looking to gain insight from an industry expert, our top business speakers blog lists some of our prime choices!
Motivational speakers again differ. Tasked with energising their audiences to take action in their own life, they require a specific set of traits and skills to truly strike a cord and inspire change. Motivational speaking requires a deep understanding of the struggles, concerns, and aspirations of their audience, and the ability to connect on a deeper level with them as a result.
Meanwhile, a celebrity expert can help draw a crowd on star power alone, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need a unique combination of skills, knowledge, and passion to create a good impression! Above all, a celebrity expert needs to be credible and relevant, with a sterling reputation and track record in their area of expertise in order to provide true insight to the audience. Those listening will appreciate a peek behind the curtain of their journey to success in their field, so the ability to weave personal anecdotes into their presentation helps, too.
The Overlapping Qualities Between Types of Speaker
Whilst each speaker is different, there are undeniably certain qualities that should be considered when choosing one best suited to your next event. Across all of the speakers in our books, there are certain skills and techniques all should aspire to:
- Authenticity: Audiences react best to speakers who are their authentic selves. Great speakers are true to who they are and their message, building trust with their audience and offering honesty and transparency.
- Adaptability: Any speaker will tell you that no matter how much you prepare, things can, and do, go wrong. In order to achieve success in public speaking, the speaker needs to be able to think on their feet and adapt to any situation when things aren’t going according to plan. Being able to read the audience, and flexible enough to tailor your speech around them, can help save the day in the event of a difficult situation.
- Professionalism: As with any discipline, a professional public speaker who is easy to work with, prepared, well-informed and punctual will always perform better. Great speakers are committed to maintaining a good reputation and continually honing and improving their skills.
Booking A Speaker
Public speaking is an art that encompasses a range of skills and qualities. These traits are applicable to various speaking contexts, from after-dinner talks to business presentations. To witness these characteristics in action at your next event, why not reach out to our experts here at Gordon Poole for advice and support in choosing a speaker that suits your needs?
