Displaying items by tag: public speaking tips

In public speaking, being seen as warm and relatable is just as important as being informative. Audiences don’t just want facts – they want to feel something. They want to feel connected to you. And the most successful speakers know how to strike that perfect balance between authority and approachability.

At The Presenter Studio, we train our clients to lead with warmth – because it builds trust. And trust makes your message more memorable, persuasive and impactful.

So how do you come across as warm? It’s not about being overly smiley or rehearsed. It’s about creating a sense of genuine connection. First up: smile when it feels right. A natural smile at the start of your talk goes a long way in lowering the temperature in the room and inviting people in.

Next, make eye contact. Not with the back wall. Not with your slides. But with your audience. Move your gaze across the room. Look at individual people – hold their attention for a moment, then move on. This gives everyone a sense that you’re speaking with them, not just at them.

Language matters too. Speak conversationally. Avoid jargon. Imagine explaining your ideas to someone over a coffee, not reading them out of a report. Let your personality come through in the way you talk. It doesn’t dilute your professionalism – it enhances your credibility.

What you wear and how your slides look can also add or take away warmth. Choose clothing that feels authentic to you and appropriate to the environment – not overly formal, but still polished. When it comes to slides, go for visual simplicity and storytelling, not pages of text. Slides should support your presence, not compete with it.

Public speaking is an opportunity to show not just what you know, but who you are. And when your audience likes you, they’ll listen more closely.

To develop your own warm, authentic speaking style, explore our coaching at The Presenter Studio: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

In today’s fast-paced business world, being able to communicate ideas clearly and confidently is a key leadership skill. Whether you're pitching to clients, running team meetings, or speaking at events, the way you present can shape how others see you.

At Presenter Studio, our public speaking training for professionals is built around real-world situations. We don’t just teach techniques – we help you apply them in the settings that matter most to your work.

One of the first things we address is structure. Most professionals overcomplicate their content. We help you build clear, focused presentations using a simple three-part structure: What’s the message? Why does it matter? What’s the call to action?

We also look at tone and delivery. Many professionals speak too fast or fill gaps with “um” or “like.” These habits can dilute your authority. We help you replace filler with pauses and teach you how to use emphasis to guide your audience.

Eye contact is another key skill. When speaking in meetings or small groups, make sure to include everyone by moving your gaze around the room. In larger settings, divide the audience mentally into zones and connect with each one.

And finally, we teach you to speak with intention. Every sentence should move the audience forward. Cut out waffle, be clear, and speak like you mean it.

For professionals who want to speak with credibility, warmth and clarity, our training offers long-lasting impact.

Book your place here:
https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Nerves are normal. Even the most experienced speakers feel them. It’s your body’s way of preparing you for something important. But nerves don’t have to control you. With the right tools, you can channel that energy and walk into your talk with focus and clarity.

The first thing is to breathe. Proper breathing grounds you. It slows your heart rate and helps you stay calm. Before you speak, take a few steady breaths in through your nose, and out through your mouth. Keep it slow and even. This tells your body you’re safe.

Next, reframe the nerves. Instead of thinking of them as fear, try to see them as excitement. The same adrenaline rush that makes you anxious is the one that sharpens your mind and gives you presence. Tell yourself it’s your body getting ready to perform.

Preparation also plays a huge role. The more prepared you are, the more secure you’ll feel. That means knowing your message, not just memorising your lines. If you understand your core points and know where you're going, you’ll feel more confident even if you get thrown a curveball.

Finally, focus on the audience, not yourself. Nervous speakers often go inward, worrying about how they look or sound. Shift your attention outward. Think about the people in front of you. What do they need? What will help them? That simple shift makes a huge difference.

At Presenter Studio, we work with clients to turn nerves into confidence. Public speaking doesn’t have to be scary – it can be a space where you shine. Learn how in our full course at https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

In a world full of content, what really cuts through is authenticity. That’s especially true in public speaking. People don’t remember every word you say—they remember how you made them feel. Being real, human and honest is what truly connects.

At The Presenter Studio, we’ve produced some of the UK’s biggest presenters. And we’ve learnt that the best communicators aren’t the most polished—they’re the most relatable. They’re confident in their message, but they’re also grounded in who they are.

So how do you speak authentically? First, use your own words. Avoid jargon or scripted lines that don’t sound like you. Speak the way you speak in real life—with a bit more clarity and purpose.

Next, share something personal. You don’t need to tell your life story. But a well-placed anecdote or insight can help you build a connection with your audience.

Finally, remember that authenticity doesn’t mean winging it. It means preparing well enough that you feel relaxed and in control—so your personality can shine through.

If you want to develop a natural, confident speaking style that still delivers impact, our bespoke coaching is here to help. Find out more at https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Even the most confident professionals feel nervous before public speaking. The good news is, nerves are normal—and they can even help sharpen your performance. But when nerves take over, they can affect your delivery. That’s where training and preparation come in.

At The Presenter Studio, we work with clients who have to speak under pressure—live TV, investor meetings, high-stakes interviews. We’ve developed techniques to manage nerves and help you feel in control.

The first step is breathing. Shallow breathing fuels anxiety. Practice slowing your breath and grounding your voice from your stomach. This will also help you speak with more presence.

Visualisation is another helpful tool. Take a few minutes to picture yourself on stage, speaking calmly and clearly. It helps trick your brain into thinking you’ve already done it successfully.

And finally, focus on your audience—not yourself. Nervous speakers often worry how they’re being judged. But your job is to deliver value. Think about what your audience needs to hear and how you can help them.

To work with our team of TV producers turned communication coaches, explore our presentation skills training at:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Public speaking can feel intimidating, even for experienced professionals. But with the right approach, it’s a skill anyone can improve. At The Presenter Studio, we coach people from all walks of life - CEOs, creatives, academics and brand spokespeople—helping them find confidence and clarity in how they speak.

One of the most effective tips is to prepare your structure, not your script. A good presentation has a clear beginning, middle and end, but it shouldn’t sound robotic. Knowing your structure helps you stay on track while still sounding natural and responsive.

Another tip is to slow down. Nerves often make us rush. But speaking more slowly gives your audience time to absorb what you're saying—and gives you time to think. Pausing can be powerful.

A third tip: don’t just speak at people—engage with them. Make eye contact. Ask questions. React to the room. Public speaking should feel like a conversation, not a lecture.

At The Presenter Studio, we believe that great public speaking is about being yourself—just your best, most confident version. Find out how we can help you improve at:  https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Public speaking can feel intimidating, but the truth is it’s a skill anyone can learn. At The Presenter Studio, we’ve helped people from all backgrounds become more confident and authentic speakers. Whether you're presenting in a meeting, on stage, or on screen, a few simple techniques can help you connect with your audience and communicate your message with clarity.

One of the most important tools in public speaking is eye contact. It helps build trust and shows your audience that you’re present with them. It’s not about staring or trying to look at everyone all the time. Just take a moment to make a natural connection with someone in the room, hold it briefly, then move on. If you’re speaking on camera, imagine you're talking to one person and look directly into the lens. It makes everything feel more personal.

Another powerful way to improve your presentation is to interact with your audience. Public speaking isn’t a monologue—it’s a moment of shared experience. Ask a question. Pause to let something land. React to the energy in the room. You don’t have to be overly informal, but even small moments of interaction make your audience feel involved and keep them engaged.

And don’t forget to smile. A smile can set the tone, put your audience at ease, and help you feel more relaxed too. It makes you more approachable and human. You don’t need to overdo it, just allow your expression to reflect the tone of what you’re saying. A genuine smile goes a long way in helping you come across with warmth and confidence.

These tips form the foundation of what we teach in all our training—whether it’s media coaching, public speaking support, or a full presentation skills course. The techniques may be simple, but they have a lasting impact when used with intention.

If you’d like more help with your speaking style, visit our presentation skills page: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Public speaking doesn’t have to be scary. In fact, when done right, it can be one of the most powerful ways to inspire, influence, and connect. At The Presenter Studio, we help people find their voice – and make sure that voice sounds like them. Whether you're on stage, in a meeting, or presenting to camera, here are five key tips that will help you succeed every time.

1. Be Yourself

It sounds simple, but it’s the most important thing. Too often, people try to sound like what they think a public speaker should be – polished, perfect, even robotic. But the most engaging speakers are those who are natural, relaxed, and real. People buy people. So let your personality come through. You don’t need to perform – you just need to connect.

2. Be the Personification of Your Brand

Whether you’re speaking on behalf of your business, a campaign or just yourself, remember that you are the brand. How you speak, what you wear, your tone, energy and attitude – they all reflect what your brand stands for. Don’t just repeat your brand’s messaging – embody it. Be the living, breathing version of what your brand represents.

3. Learn Your Intro

First impressions matter. A strong, confident introduction sets the tone for everything that follows. Learn it, rehearse it, and make sure it flows naturally. Your intro should answer two silent questions from your audience: why should I listen to you, and what am I going to get from this? Nail your opening, and the rest will come more easily.

4. Write Long, Then Sub Back

This is a golden rule in our public speaking coaching. When preparing your content, write everything out in full first. Don’t try to be concise from the start – let your ideas flow. Then, go back and strip it down. Cut the fluff. Keep the heart. What you’ll be left with is content that feels natural, not rehearsed – and that still hits all the right notes.

5. Engage Rather Than Educate

The goal of a great talk isn’t just to share information – it’s to make people feel something. Facts alone won’t cut it. You need to spark interest, create connection, and involve your audience in the moment. Shift your mindset from “How can I teach them?” to “How can I reach them?” That’s the difference between a speaker and a memorable communicator.

If you want to build your confidence and become a more impactful public speaker, our bespoke public speaking courses are designed to bring out the best in you – whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro.

Explore our training options at https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Public speaking is one of the most common fears out there — and we get it. That mix of nerves, adrenaline, and the pressure to ‘perform’ can feel overwhelming. But here's the truth: great presenters aren’t born, they’re made. At The Presenter Studio, we’ve coached everyone from CEOs to TV presenters — and we know what works.

If you're looking to improve your presentation skills and finally stop the fear, these five tips are for you.

Chat to a Mate

One of the biggest mistakes people make is trying to 'present'. They stiffen up, use overly formal language, and lose their personality. Instead, imagine you’re having a chat with a mate. It’s more natural, more relatable, and it helps your audience connect with you.

A great way to practise this is by running through your presentation out loud as if you were explaining it to a friend. Picture someone you trust sitting in the audience and speak directly to them. You’ll sound more human and feel more at ease.

Learn Your Intro

Nerves always peak at the start. That’s when your heart’s racing, palms are sweaty, and your brain is running on overdrive. The best way to beat this is to nail your opening.

If you know your first 60 seconds word for word, you’re giving yourself a strong foundation to build from. It helps settle your nerves and lets you ease into your talk with confidence.

Dress to Impress

You don’t need to wear a tux, but looking good helps you feel good. Clothes aren’t just about style — they’re part of your mindset. When you feel confident in what you’re wearing, it shows.

Choose something that makes you feel like the best version of yourself. Keep it comfortable, professional and authentically you. Avoid anything distracting or that makes you self-conscious.

The Power of the Pause

Silence is powerful. A well-timed pause gives your message space to land, lets your audience absorb what you’ve said, and gives you a moment to breathe.

So many people rush through their presentation just to get it over with. Don’t be afraid to stop and let the moment breathe. It shows confidence and keeps your audience engaged.

Avoid Jargon

Trying to sound smart by using big words or industry buzzwords usually backfires. People tune out when they hear unfamiliar language — and the last thing you want is to lose your audience.

Speak simply. Use language that’s clear and easy to understand. Your job is to make your message accessible, not to impress with complexity. If your audience doesn’t get it, they won’t remember it.

Final Thoughts

Improving your presentation skills is a journey — and it starts with shifting your mindset. Remember, presenting isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being real. Be conversational. Be prepared. Be confident in who you are.

And next time the nerves kick in, just remind yourself: you’ve got this.

For expert coaching and insider secrets from the world of television and business, visit The Presenter Studio’s bespoke training page: https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training

Let’s turn fear into confidence — one presentation at a time.

Public speaking often ranks as one of the most common fears, but it’s also one of the greatest professional opportunities. Whether you’re speaking at a company meeting, industry event, or client pitch, how you present yourself can shape how others see your credibility, confidence, and leadership. That’s why getting it right matters – and why investing in professional presentation skills training is a smart move for anyone serious about success.

Many people see public speaking as a challenge to survive, rather than a skill to master. But when approached with the right training and mindset, it becomes a platform to influence, inspire and connect. A strong presentation can lead to new business opportunities, career advancement, or internal recognition. At The Presenter Studio, we help individuals and teams unlock that potential by turning nerves into impact.

Presentation skills training goes far beyond learning how to speak clearly or stand confidently. It’s about understanding your audience, structuring your message, and delivering it with authenticity. Great public speakers aren’t born – they’re trained. And with the right support, anyone can learn how to be engaging, persuasive, and memorable.

In our experience, the most successful presenters are those who see public speaking not as a task to dread, but as a moment to shine. It’s a chance to tell your story, share your vision, and represent your brand or business with professionalism and passion. But to do that effectively, you need the tools, techniques, and real-world practice that only tailored training can provide.

At The Presenter Studio, our presentation skills training courses are designed to give you exactly that. Whether you’re a seasoned speaker looking to polish your delivery, or someone stepping onto the stage for the first time, our training is customised to your needs. We work with clients to build confidence, improve clarity, and deliver messages that stick – all in a supportive, practical environment.

Public speaking isn’t going away. In fact, it’s becoming more important than ever in today’s fast-paced, communication-driven world. So why not turn it into one of your strengths? With the right training, public speaking becomes less of a risk – and more of a powerful opportunity to get right.

Ready to take your skills to the next level? Discover our full presentation skills training programme here:
https://www.presenterstudio.com/business-presenter-training/presentation-skills-training