What do you do if your executive speech is falling flat?

This has happened to the best of us (likely multiple times if you’ve been in it awhile) - the moment you sense your speech or presentation isn’t hitting the mark, swift assessment is your ally. One thing that really helps me is always making sure you observe the audience closely—disengagement often reveals itself through body language. The issue might stem from a monotonous delivery, overly technical or business content, or a lack of connection with the audience. Identifying the stumbling block without missing a beat allows for immediate course correction. Those moments are invaluable; they offer real-time, unfiltered insight into your effectiveness as a speaker. And with each rep, that muscle will strengthen. Good luck out there!

What is actually working? Lean into that. Quickly pivot from content that isn't landing. So many speakers keep moving in the quick sand instead of just relaxing and getting out. Learn how to turn the page and tell more stories. Whenever I see speakers drowning, I'm always wishing they would move from data and just tell a relatable story. A well told story can save you from almost anything. Tell a story and save the talk.

Confidence in holding an audience starts before you hit the stage. You can keep the audience if a five-year-old can understand your talk. After you have practiced before a five-year-old effectively and you're standing on the stage, losing the audience suddenly, it's time to ask an engaging question relevant to your topic. Crowd participation is vital in any presentation. Asking engaging questions to split the audience makes them more interactive. Instead of talking at them, chat with them and even have them volunteer answers. Owning the stage and searching for social cues from the entire room is essential. I often open my speeches with an engaging question before my introduction. By a show of hands, who prefers an iPad over a notepad?

Detecting the disconnect means it’s time to reel your audience back in. Engagement can be reignited through direct interaction—pose a thought-provoking question or invite audience participation. This approach not only revives interest but also fosters a sense of inclusivity. In more formal settings where interactive engagement might not be feasible, pivot to sharing a personal anecdote or adjusting your tone. Narratives can bridge the gap between speaker and audience, transforming abstract concepts into relatable experiences. Engagement is not just about sharing information; it’s about forging a connection that amplifies your message.

A common pitfall I see in executive speeches is the heavy reliance on industry jargon or complex concepts that may alienate your audience. When you suspect this is the issue, it’s time to distill your message to its essence. ??Work in analogies and metaphors to demystify complicated ideas, making them accessible and memorable. And those don’t always land so you try out different ones. ??Clarity is your speech’s best friend. Ensuring that your audience can grasp your message effortlessly not only keeps their attention but also significantly increases the likelihood that they will absorb and remember your insights. Simplicity, in this context, does not dilute your message nor credibility —it amplifies it.

To ensure you come across as authentic make sure your delivery is aligned with your message. You can even mark up your speaker notes to remind you when to slow down, pause more, show more excitement in your voice and body, etc. Then rehearse your presentation including the emotion and relevant delivery elements to ensure coherence and natural delivery.