Public Speaking: Who is Your True, Authentic Self?

By Lisa Braithwaite

"Water which is too pure has no fish." ~ Ts'ai Ken T'An

Speakers often focus on the "rules" of speaking more than on being a truly effective speaker. Unfortunately, following too many rules can paralyze a speaker and make them dreary and mechanical, submerging the soul and spirit of the person inside the speaker.

Instead of focusing on refining the mechanics of your presentation, let's talk about what you bring to the table as an individual. What do your personality and style have to do with giving a successful presentation?

You’ve probably seen some pretty slick speakers. You’ve probably seen some speakers who were so polished, you sat in awe with your mouth hanging open.

But many times, those speakers are not connecting with the audience. They're technically proficient, but there’s an emotional distance between them and the audience, a chasm that’s wider than just the space between the podium and the front row.

You will be most effective as a speaker if you let your personality -- with all your quirks and unique characteristics -- shine. All the tips and tricks in the world won’t fool your audience if you’re faking it.

So what are some of your personality traits? Here's a list if you need some ideas. Make a list of ten personality traits that fit you. Be honest with yourself and don't be modest.

Now that you’ve identified some of your traits, imagine how they might benefit you as a speaker:

For example: if you listed "perceptive," then this is a good trait for helping you read your audience throughout your talk to determine what’s working and what isn’t.

If you listed "spontaneous," you might enjoy throwing little surprises at your audience to keep them on their toes.

If you listed "tactful," then you’ll be great at taking charge of questions that sometimes veer off topic, and you’re probably great at dealing with hecklers.

"Organized?" Then you’ll be good at making the presentation easy for your audience to follow.

Look at your personality traits as neither good nor bad; they just "are." Try not to judge or think negatively about yourself, but think of how you can best incorporate your own personality into your presentations.

Some people say, "But the real me is BORING." Well, that’s just not true! Each of us has something unique and special to bring to our speaking engagements. It’s how you connect with your audience and make your presentation about them that’s most important.

So you’re not Jerry Seinfeld, you’re not Dr. Phil, and you’re not Oprah. Each of these people brings her or his own unique style to communication, and you can, too. Knowing who you are -- and who you aren't -- keeps you honest, authentic, and accessible to your audience. You're perfect just the way you are!