With the weekend ahead, let’s talk about facing an audience—a challenge I once feared but now enjoy.
In 2023, I spoke at numerous events and received positive feedback from audiences. I’m not formally trained, nor do I watch YouTube or TED Talks for inspiration. Here’s what works for me, and I hope it helps you too. Your mileage may vary.
1. Select a Pertinent Topic
Before speaking at an event, I research the event, other speakers, agenda, and audience. I ask two questions: “Does this audience need this topic?” and “Am I the right person to speak?” Event organizers welcome suggestions, and this ensures relevance.
2. Engage with Your Audience
Humans crave connection, but it’s not always natural. To engage, I let my human side shine. Emotional intelligence and awareness of the audience’s need to connect draw them to your message. Try these openers:
a) A few years ago, I’d be sitting where you are...
b) I looked up many of you on LinkedIn and am impressed by the talent here...
c) I’m not here to teach; let’s have a conversation...
3. Use Simple Language
I speak on complex topics like cybersecurity. I aim for simplicity, so a 15-year-old could understand. The more senior the audience, the greater the need for clarity. Avoid jargon, acronyms, or assuming prior knowledge. If you can’t explain it in 60 seconds, you don’t know it well enough.
4. Minimize Slides, Maximize Q&A
Avoid busy slides—never copy-paste from Word to PowerPoint. Use images and bullet points, or quotes only. For a 25-minute talk, finish in 12 minutes with 5 slides max, leaving 13 minutes for Q&A. Tell the audience your plan and encourage questions.
5. Be Honest, Humble, and Credible
Some questions are tough (e.g., specific cyber threats). Don’t bluff or say “it depends” without covering key possibilities. Admit limits: “Current best practice suggests...” Humility trumps arrogance—avoid phrases like “Even I can’t...” Credibility is earned at each event, not from titles. If you err, own it: “In 2017, I believed X, but I was wrong.”
6. Propose Tangible Actions
Why do inspirational talks fade? Offer actionable steps. For example, to Non-Executive Directors, I said, “At your next Board meeting, ask this one question...” Many took notes.
7. Ensure Easy Recall
Instead of summarizing, I say, “If you forget everything else, remember this...” It sticks better.
8. Go Deep Very Selectively
For complex questions (e.g., “Does Zero Trust eliminate VPNs?”), avoid rabbit holes. Say, “This topic is complex; let me use one example...” Limit deep dives to 25% of your talk to balance expert and non-expert audiences.
9. Inspire and Motivate
I’m not a motivational speaker—real motivation comes from within. My role is to spark it: “You know your business better than I do. I hope this helps you decide...” This empowers rather than preaches.
What Next?
These are my secrets to effective public speaking. Put your audience first, and they’ll connect with you. If I’m in your audience, I’d love to share feedback! Connect with me on X (@SantoshPanditUK).
Santosh Pandit
5 January 2024