Introduction
Public speaking can be intimidating for many people, especially beginners. Whether you’re preparing for a class presentation, a business pitch, or your first leadership talk, learning how to speak confidently in front of others can make a lasting impression.
In this article, adapted from Communication Coach, we’ll cover practical dos and don’ts of public speaking to help you overcome nerves, connect with your audience, and communicate your message clearly.
1. Don’t Ramble — Stay Organised and Concise
One of the biggest mistakes new speakers make is rambling or wandering off-topic. When a speech lacks structure, it becomes difficult for listeners to follow or remember key points.
Do this instead:
- Prepare a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Identify three main points and use smooth transitions between them.
- Practise summarising your ideas so your audience can easily recall your message.
An organised, concise talk keeps people engaged and helps you sound more confident and professional.
2. Don’t Avoid Eye Contact — Connect with Your Audience
Many beginners look over people’s heads, stare at the floor, or scan the room nervously. This weakens your connection with listeners.
Do this instead:
Use the “one thought, one look” technique. Make eye contact with one person long enough to complete a thought or sentence, then move to another person.
Eye contact builds trust and shows sincerity. It might feel awkward at first, but genuine eye contact creates a powerful connection and makes your audience feel included.
3. Don’t Overload Your Notes — Keep Them Simple
It’s tempting to write out every word you plan to say, but overstuffed notes often lead to reading robotically from the page.
Do this instead:
- Create brief talking points — like a shopping list of ideas.
- Use keywords or short phrases to guide you.
- Practise speaking naturally from memory instead of reading word-for-word.
This approach keeps your delivery conversational and allows you to look up more often, helping you engage directly with your audience.
4. Don’t Overcrowd Your Slides — Use Visuals Wisely
Another common mistake is cluttering slides with text, animations, or too many visuals. It distracts your audience and tempts you to read directly from the screen.
Do this instead:
- Keep slides clean and simple — one key message per slide.
- Limit time spent on each slide to two or three minutes maximum.
- Use minimal text and clear visuals to support (not replace) your speech.
Slides should enhance your presentation, not compete with it.
5. Don’t Fidget — Move with Purpose
Fidgeting with your hands, shifting your feet, or pacing nervously can distract from your message.
Do this instead:
- Stand tall with confident posture.
- Move intentionally — change position only to emphasise a new point or engage another part of the audience.
- Use natural gestures to highlight ideas, but avoid putting your hands in your pockets or playing with objects like pens.
Controlled movement conveys authority and calmness, helping your audience focus on your words.
6. Don’t Speak Too Softly — Use Your Voice Effectively
A weak or monotone voice can cause your audience to lose interest. Similarly, using too many fillers like “um,” “ah,” or “so” can make you sound unsure.
Do this instead:
- Project your voice to reach the back of the room.
- Speak clearly and confidently, varying your tone for emphasis.
- Use pauses to let key ideas sink in instead of filling silence with filler words.
Pausing gives your audience time to reflect and makes your message more powerful.
7. Practise with Purpose
Confidence comes from preparation and repetition. Rehearse your speech out loud several times — in front of a mirror, a friend, or even your phone camera. Focus on your pacing, gestures, and eye contact.
Remember, every great speaker once started as a beginner. Each time you speak in public, you gain experience and confidence.
Conclusion
Public speaking isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection. When you prepare your thoughts, speak with energy, and engage your audience, you’ll find that your confidence naturally grows.
To recap:
- Be clear, not long-winded.
- Make eye contact and connect.
- Keep notes and slides simple.
- Control your movement and voice.
- Practise until you feel natural.
Start applying these tips in your next presentation, and you’ll quickly see improvement.
So, which of these strategies will help you the most? Reflect, practise, and step onto the stage with confidence — your audience is ready to listen.
