How can public speaking be used to build trust with the public?

1 Why trust matters

Trust is the foundation of any successful relationship, and public administration is no exception. Trust enables public administrators to gain support and cooperation from the public, to foster collaboration and innovation, and to enhance their legitimacy and accountability. Trust also reduces conflict and resistance, and increases satisfaction and loyalty. Without trust, public administrators face challenges such as mistrust, cynicism, apathy, or hostility from the public, which can undermine their effectiveness and reputation.

3 How to prepare for public speaking

Preparation is key to delivering a trustworthy public speech. You need to know your purpose, your audience, and your message. Your purpose is the main goal or objective of your speech, such as informing, educating, inspiring, or persuading. Your audience is the group of people you are speaking to, such as citizens, stakeholders, media, or colleagues. Your message is the core idea or theme of your speech, such as a policy, a project, a vision, or a solution. You need to align your purpose, audience, and message to create a clear and coherent speech that meets the needs and expectations of the public.

4 How to structure your public speech

Structure is essential to creating a logical and engaging public speech. You need to have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Your introduction should capture the attention of the public, state your purpose and message, and preview your main points. Your body should develop your main points with evidence, examples, and explanations. Your conclusion should summarize your main points, restate your message, and call for action or feedback. You should also use transitions, signposts, and repetition to connect your ideas and guide the public through your speech.

5 How to deliver your public speech

Delivery is crucial to conveying your confidence and charisma in public speaking. You need to use your voice, body, and visuals effectively. Your voice should be clear, loud, and varied in tone, pitch, and pace. Your body should be relaxed, expressive, and aligned with your voice. Your visuals should be simple, relevant, and supportive of your speech. You should also practice your speech beforehand, rehearse with feedback, and adapt to the situation and feedback during your speech.

6 How to improve your public speaking skills

Improvement is the result of continuous learning and practice in public speaking. You need to seek opportunities to speak in public, such as meetings, events, or webinars. You need to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals for improvement. You need to learn from other public speakers, such as mentors, peers, or experts. You need to join a public speaking group, such as Toastmasters, or take a public speaking course, such as Coursera, to enhance your skills and confidence.