Last Monday saw the unveiling of the Miss SVG contestants 2022. It was great to hear that a Public Speaking coach is indeed part of the team and it definitely showed when the ladies each presented themselves to the Vincentian public. This reiterated how important public speaking is whether you are a contestant in a pageant, a college student presenting a group project, an entertainer being interviewed or a CEO or company representative addressing stakeholders, a ceremony or the press. It’s not easy and it can shake the confidence of even the most confident person. Many people experience some kind of anxiety when it comes to public speaking – in fact there is even a name for it (Glossophobia- the fear of public speaking).

As a business owner, Marketing professional or manager, you may feel anxious when it’s time to appear in front of the camera, make a speech or do a radio interview. Here are a few tips that can help:

Start with a message map – What’s the key message (s) you want to convey when you do an interview, make a presentation or speech? Your key message should be a 21-word message or a seven second sound bite e.g., if you have a business, you can use this template: I do X for Y, so they can Z, therefore in my case, I would say “I help brands nail their messaging and tell their story clearly so they can stand out amid the clutter”.

Have a unique perspective – Ask yourself, how you can differentiate yourself from other speakers. Do you have content that is uniquely yours? Determine what sets you and your content apart and develop unique messages or stories around it. What I loved most about the introduction by the first contestant, Miss Play 4, is that she introduced herself using a story; she shared information that was uniquely hers and drew us into her world by taking us on her journey.

Rehearse, rehearse – Practice makes perfect is not just a saying. It’s even more important when it comes to public speaking. In front of a mirror or in front of other persons is a must! Become familiar and comfortable with your content especially your key message and supporting messages.

Dress for the occasion – When it comes to public speaking, you must maximize confidence and the way you dress can affect your confidence. The nature of the event will dictate your dress code but your dress code should in no way restrict your movement or make your feel or look rigid. Own your space! Own the area you have been given! If it’s a presentation, don’t hide behind the podium; if it’s a stage, don’t stand in a corner. Exude confidence and look as if you know what you’re about! How you stand matters!

The last impression also matters- You have heard first impression matters but so does the last impression. Give the audience more information at the end of speech or presentation so they can reach you e.g., get business cards or hand out your business cards. Building your network is the end goal of a speaking presentation.

Be sure to connect with your audience with gratitude in your final moments onstage.

Candice Sealey is the Founder & Principal Consultant at Ignite! a Full-service Marketing & PR Consultancy that helps businesses/brands to stand out and communicate the right message to the right people at the right time through Strategy, Marketing, Media services and Design solutions. She is also a freelance content writer, advertising copywriter, voiceover talent, media personality. Follow us on FB & IG @igniteresults Phone:784-432-2223. Email: igniteresults@gmail.com