How can your speaking style stand out in a professional portfolio?

Imitating someone is the biggest mistake what people do nowadays. Be YOU as everyone is unique, so is your speaking. Be very crisp with examples to make a better sync with the listener. Secondly, listen very carefully, before speaking, as it creates a biggest hurdle in place. Never copy any accent, deliver what you have but in a professional way.

Keep it simple. Do not try to explain a difficult idea in terms that only a few will understand. I use the method of "Explain it like I'm five". If I can do that it indicates that I have a grasp of the material and that I can communicate it to others effectively. Nobody cares how smart you are.

For any talk or presentation, your purpose has to come first. What change are you trying to make? Do you want your audience to understand better? Do you want them to take action? Do you want them to donate to a cause? Do you want them to think about an issue more? Once you know your purpose, and who your audience is, everything else flows from there.

Worry less about authenticity, and more about sincerity in the moment. Authenticity applies to objects, not people. Being sincere is about being yourself in that moment, and being yourself on stage or at an event may be very different from being yourself at home or at a social event with friends. Be true to yourself in the moment, and don't worry about being authentic to some static, unchanging 'true' self.

Be honest about who you are and how you communicate. You can have a sense of humor but not be a funny person. If that is the case, don't lead off with a joke. People understand if you're not the most entertaining speaker as long as you're authentic.

Speak clearly and confidently, articulating your thoughts with precision and assurance. Use an engaging tone that reflects your enthusiasm for your work, captivating your audience and keeping them interested. Be concise and impactful, emphasizing key points to ensure your message is memorable. Actively listen and respond thoughtfully, showing genuine interest in conversations. Adapt your style to different situations, whether formal presentations or casual discussions, showcasing your versatility. Maintain professionalism in your language, steering clear of slang, and using respectful tones. Above all, be authentic—let your unique personality shine through, as authenticity fosters strong and lasting connections with your audience.

Consider your audience. As a trial attorney, you speak to clients, jurors, judges and opposing attorneys all differently. Don't be the person who insists on using jargon and phrases to make yourself look like an "insider" Nobody likes it when they're spoken to like they'll never understand because they are aren't "part of the club".

Don't be afraid to move. The most mind-numbing presentations are when the speaker stands behind a podium and reads their notes from a power-point. Most adults in business can read, you don't need to read to them. Move around the room and give them something to follow, otherwise they are going straight to scrolling on their phones.

Practice comes from doing it. Standing in front of a mirror doesn't cut it. Get out there and talk to people. Coach your kids teams, volunteer at a club, teach a class. These are relatively low stakes experiences where you can make mistakes with little risk. And kids will let you know when you stink at it.

What are the first words out of your mouth as a speaker who is introduced. If it is "my name is.....", stop. You were just introduced, everyone knows your name. You names is probably on a slide behind you. Think about the first few sentences that will come out of your mouth. Be creative and engaging. Avoid "my name is.....or...can you hear me..."