Standing up and speaking in front of an audience can be nerve-racking, even for people who do it regularly. The good news is that successful public speaking isn’t about being the loudest person in the room or having all the answers. It’s about being prepared, believing in what you’re saying and communicating your ideas clearly.
Ahead of the Great Debate regional heats, we spoke to Operations and Customer Relations Director Kelly Wigley about her top tips for speaking with confidence. Here is what she has to share.
Know who you’re talking to
Before you start preparing your arguments, think about your audience. What are they likely to know already? What might they find interesting or persuasive?
The best speakers explain their ideas in a way that connects with the people listening.
Keep your argument simple
A common mistake is trying to say too much. Focus on your strongest points, explain them clearly and support them with good evidence. A few well-made arguments are usually more effective than lots of rushed ones.
Use evidence to support your point
Facts, statistics and historical examples can strengthen your argument, but only if they help prove your point. Don’t include information just because it’s interesting. Make sure it helps move your argument forward.
Practise out loud
Reading notes silently and delivering them to an audience are two very different things. Saying your argument out loud helps you spot awkward wording, improve your timing and build confidence before the big day.
Slow down
When we’re nervous, we tend to speed up. Take a breath, speak clearly and don’t be afraid of a short pause. It gives your audience time to think about what you’ve said and makes you appear more confident.
Speak to people, not to your notes
Notes can be useful prompts but try not to read every word from a page. Look up, make eye contact and speak directly to your audience whenever you can.
Listen as well as speak
Debating isn’t just about presenting your own arguments. It’s also about listening carefully to others and responding thoughtfully. Sometimes the strongest contribution comes from picking up on a point someone else has made and challenging it respectfully.
Be ready for questions
Think about what someone who disagrees with you might say. Preparing for challenges in advance will help you stay calm and show that you’ve thought about different sides of the issue.
Remember that everyone gets nervous
Feeling nervous isn’t a sign that you’re not ready. It usually means you care about doing well. Most experienced speakers still get butterflies before standing up in front of an audience. Confidence comes from preparation, practice and simply giving it a go.
And finally…
The Great Debate isn’t just about winning an argument. It’s about learning how to think critically, communicate clearly and engage respectfully with different viewpoints.
Those are skills that will stay with you long after the debate itself is over.
