If the thought of speaking in front of others makes you break out in a cold sweat, you're not alone. But here's the good news: public speaking is not an inborn trait, reserved for the few who are naturally charismatic. It's a skill that anyone can learn and hone, and mastering it can unlock doors in your career that you might never have thought possible.

It’s a skill, not a gift

Public speaking is often viewed as a gift — something you're either born with or without. But the truth is that it’s a skill anyone can develop, especially when you remember that audiences aren’t out to judge or critique you; in fact, they want you to succeed. This shift in perspective can be the first step in gaining confidence. Understanding that audiences are on your side helps you see that your primary job as a speaker is simply to help them follow your message.

Accelerates your career growth

Storytelling and communication can make or break your career path. A compelling story can persuade people, build connections, and open opportunities. Oftentimes people presume that hard work alone brings career success, but a lot of the time, effectively communicating what your work is and how you’re doing it is what truly sets you apart. This lesson can be a powerful motivator to take steps toward improving your speaking skills because whether you’re presenting a project, pitching a new idea, or networking, the way you communicate can enhance your credibility and influence. The best story wins, and in today's competitive landscape, that story is often your own.

Why we hold back… and how to overcome that

Many professionals struggle with public speaking because of fear: fear of failure, fear of being judged, and fear of making mistakes. In reality, embracing mistakes and imperfection can make you more relatable. Learning to say, "I don't know" or "Let me think on that" builds credibility rather than detracting from it.

Another common barrier is disliking the sound of your own voice. Fun fact: the voice you hear when you speak is different from what others hear. Since our own voice resonates through our bones, it sounds richer to us than it does when played back on video. Realising that others hear us as they always have — and that they aren’t put off by it — can be a big step in letting go of that discomfort.

So, what tips do we have?

Our top tips to becoming a more confident public speaker are:

1. Practice, Practice, Practice: There’s no substitute for practice, especially in front of a real audience. Toastmasters is a fantastic, low-cost option that provides a supportive environment to test and refine your skills.

2. Start with what you know: If you’re nervous, start by talking about familiar topics. Even everyday work-related stories can make great practice material. Present them as relatable stories — how a customer’s question led to an insight, or a personal experience that ties back to a larger theme.

3. Structure your stories: Having a structure helps ensure your story flows well and keeps your audience engaged. Begin by framing a problem or question, then share your solution or insight, and end with a key takeaway.

4. Pause, don’t um: Pausing is a powerful tool. Instead of filling gaps with “um” or “ah,” simply close your mouth and take a moment. Audiences will appreciate the pause as an opportunity to reflect on your points.

5. Leverage emotional connections: The most memorable presentations appeal to emotions as well as logic. Sharing personal stories and speaking from the heart will help your audience connect with you on a deeper level.

The secret sauce is storytelling

Storytelling is a buzzword in business today, but for good reason: humans are hardwired for stories. Throughout history, we’ve used stories to communicate complex ideas, build empathy, and inspire action. When you tell a story, you’re giving people a narrative they can connect with, making them more likely to remember and act on what you’re saying.

In the age of AI, information is readily accessible to everyone. What sets professionals apart now is their ability to package knowledge in a compelling, human-centred way. Stories make data come alive, allowing audiences to relate to the message on a personal level.

Great public speaking can transform your career by building confidence, showcasing your expertise, and allowing you to connect with others on a deeper level. If you want to grow in your career or bring more influence to your work, start investing in public speaking skills. With practice and patience, you’ll find that speaking in front of others not only becomes less daunting but can become one of your most valuable assets.