Nail Your Next Speech: Executive Presence and Public Speaking Tips
Looking to elevate your executive presence and public speaking skills? Whether you’re on stage at a conference or addressing the board, mastering how you deliver your message can make or break your impact. Below are seven tips to help you stand tall, communicate clearly, and handle any speaking scenario like a pro.
Set your objective
First things first: define what you want your audience to do or feel by the end of your speech. Are you aiming to spark a new company initiative, inspire bold ideas, or persuade stakeholders to get on board? Having a clear goal keeps your content on track and ensures that every word serves a purpose. If you need a refresher on how to embody confidence from the get-go, check out our executive presence definition.
Craft a core message
Your audience’s time is precious, so avoid going off on tangents. A concise message packed with relevant details resonates far better than a dozen half-formed thoughts. Pick your key points, present them clearly, and reinforce them throughout your talk. This simple but powerful approach helps your listeners stay engaged from start to finish.
Reveal your strategic mindset
Executives who excel at strategic thinking are more likely to inspire confidence and spark action. That means tying your speech to the company’s mission, explaining how decisions align with future goals, and showing your ability to pivot when needed. Demonstrating foresight in your talk can reassure your audience that you’ve done your homework and are ready to lead through any challenge.
Emphasize emotional intelligence
Strong executive presence isn’t just about what you say. How you connect with your audience matters just as much—maybe even more. In fact, 71% of employers value emotional intelligence more than technical skills for potential employees (according to our research). Keep the tone authentic and pay attention to your listeners’ reactions. You’ll not only keep them engaged but also show compassion and empathy, qualities that earn trust and respect.
Perfect your nonverbal cues
Confident posture, purposeful hand gestures, and steady eye contact speak volumes before you even open your mouth. Stand upright, keep your movements deliberate, and make regular eye contact with different parts of the room. Nonverbal cues can amplify—or completely undermine—everything you’re saying, so sync them up with your words for maximum impact.
Engage with a story
Facts and figures have their place, but stories stick. Whether it’s a client success tale, a personal anecdote, or a vivid scenario, a good story draws people in and makes your message more memorable. Just be sure it’s relevant to your key themes and has a clear takeaway. Brief, relatable narratives can propel your points forward and keep your audience glued to your every word.
Close with authority
Endings pack a punch. Summarize your main insights, share a last call to action, or pose a challenge that drives home your objective. Whether you invite questions or ask your listeners to envision a future scenario, make sure your finale is purposeful. A firm finish not only cements your message but also showcases the leadership quality that sets you apart.
Now it’s your turn to step into the spotlight. Put these tips into action, own your stage, and watch your executive presence and public speaking skills evolve with every opportunity. You’ve got this.