Public speaking refers to giving a verbal presentation or speech before a live audience. This can include presenting findings for work, selling people on a new product, giving a speech in front of an audience, or teaching a class. In some instances, public speaking also involves using visuals such as electronic slideshows to supplement the presentation. This can add to the experience and make it easier for the audience to follow along. Public speaking differs from other forms of presentation like posting a video online. Whereas an online presentation is always accessible and isn’t necessarily performed live, a public speech occurs at a specific place and time. The speaker should be able to clearly communicate their point, vary their cadence and tone, and engage with the audience to be effective.

Five essential qualities of a public speaker include confidence, passion, self-awareness, authenticity, and audience engagement. When a public speaker is confident, the audience is more likely to believe what they have to say and consider them more knowledgeable. When they exude passion or enthusiasm, the audience is more likely to feel it, too, making them more likely to pay attention and listen. Self-awareness refers to the speaker’s ability to appear humble, relatable, and aware of their own strengths as a speaker. For instance, if the person giving a speech is funny, they should use this aspect in their presentation. Authenticity is important, as audiences may be able to spot someone putting on an act — this can make the speaker seem fake or untrustworthy. Finally, audience engagement is key. Speakers can engage with the audience through humor, storytelling, interaction, or many other techniques.

With dedicated practice, a person can go from beginner to a competent public speaker in as little as a few days, depending on the person. Half of this process is studying techniques, and the other half is practicing. Studying techniques will involve learning the basic elements of great public speaking and watching excellent speeches and analyzing what made them great. The rest of the time is spent practicing public speaking and putting the tools into practice.