Here's how you can master public speaking for crisis situations and stakeholder communication.

> Research Thoroughly: Before your speech, dive deep into the topic to gather all pertinent data and statistics. > Verify Sources: Use only reliable and credible sources to avoid disseminating misinformation. > Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any new developments right up until your speaking engagement.

> Breathing Techniques: Practice deep breathing exercises to maintain your composure. > Mental Rehearsal: Visualize yourself speaking confidently and calmly in front of your audience. > Manage Stress: Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation or light exercise, before taking the stage.

> Acknowledge Uncertainty: If you don’t have all the answers, it’s okay to admit it. Commit to finding out and getting back to the audience. > Avoid Overpromising: Set realistic expectations about what you can deliver and by when. >Share the Process: Explain how decisions are made and how information is verified within your organization.

> Audience Analysis: Understand the demographics, concerns, and interests of your audience. > Message Framing: Position your message in a way that resonates with your audience’s values and beliefs. > Clarity and Relevance: Ensure that your message directly addresses the concerns of your stakeholders.

> Active Listening: Show that you are listening and that you care by responding to cues from your audience. > Personal Stories: Share relevant experiences that illustrate your understanding of the situation. > Inclusive Language: Use language that is inclusive and considerate of the audience’s feelings.

During a crisis, emotions run high, and acknowledging the feelings of your audience is crucial. As Maya Angelou wisely said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." By showing that you care, you build an impactful connection. When addressing your audience, share how the situation affects you personally. This demonstrates that you are in it together and humanizes you as a speaker. Empathy transforms normal communication into meaningful dialogue. Engaging with empathy enhances your credibility but also strengthens your relationship with your audience, making your message resonate deeply.

> Accessible Communication Channels: Provide multiple ways for stakeholders to reach out with questions or feedback. > Timely Responses: Ensure that follow-up communication is prompt and addresses the concerns raised. > Document Actions: Keep a record of the feedback received and the actions taken in response.

Be calm, be transparent, be truthful, and be genuine. Share what you need to share but don’t overdo it. Your job as a leader is to inspire and encourage. I remember when we had to shut everything down for COVID — everyone was scared not only for the future, but also their lives. In looking back perhaps the best thing I did was tell everyone that they needed to take care of their health and families first and that as far as work was concerned we were going to keep on, keepin’ on the best way we can based on the solid team we had built and the unshakeable foundation we had laid together. In times of crisis, I think people want to know that we’ll get through this and that we are united together.