What strategies can improve your assertiveness in public speaking?

Thoroughly understand your topic and message to speak with authority and conviction. Research extensively, organize your thoughts cohesively, and anticipate questions or objections to demonstrate expertise and confidence in your subject matter.

Personally, I learnt so much from being part of Toastmasters. Understanding the power of body language to change how you feel and others experience you is vital. Thinking about how you walk into the room - what do you need to do to feel confident and relaxed? Having a slow purposeful walk, keeping the head up, shoulders back and smiling makes a real difference - think about how great speakers hold themselves. Intentionally moving your gaze around the audience between each point and slowing down your speaking will change how people perceive you. Holding the silence demonstrates your power to stamp your own mark on room. Find opportunities to practice and ask for feedback so you can improve.

In regard to knowing your stuff, I’d add: it’s not just knowing it, it’s loving it. A particular example that comes to mind here is my experience with radio interviews — I’ve done around 100 of them so far. They are definitely more fast-paced and unpredictable than TV, and they’ll sometimes just have you on to discuss things you may not be super knowledgeable about. Interestingly, my best interviews have been the ones where we discuss something I’ve written. For them, I don’t re-read and I don’t memorize any fun facts. The times I’ve done that, I have performed worse. It’s almost as if fixating on “knowing” hinders your ability to sound “natural.” 90% of public speaking is personality, like it or not.

In regard to knowing your stuff, I’d add: it’s not just knowing it, it’s loving it. A particular example that comes to mind here is my experience with radio interviews — I’ve done around 100 of them so far. They are definitely more fast-paced and unpredictable than TV, and they’ll sometimes just have you on to discuss things you may not be super knowledgeable about. Interestingly, my best interviews have been the ones where we discuss something I’ve written. For them, I don’t re-read and I don’t memorize any fun facts. The times I’ve done that, I have performed worse. It’s almost as if fixating on “knowing” hinders your ability to sound “natural.” 90% of public speaking is personality, like it or not.

When you know your stuff, you also own it. And when you own it, you know how to discuss it despite any distractions or unexpected situations. When you are so familiar with the subject you will talk about that you could talk about it at any time of the day, you express incredible confidence and knowledge. That in itself is a win-win situation. I would however advise one important point: do not overdo the love and passion for the subject as you might use a lot of precious time. Make sure you have it all limited with bullets so you speak in an organized way.

Practice your speeches regularly to build confidence and fluency in your delivery. Rehearse in various settings and formats to simulate different speaking scenarios, and seek feedback to refine your content and delivery style.

Picture this: the more you practice, the more confident you become. It's like flexing a muscle—regular workouts build strength. So, rehearse your speech like it's your job. Practice in front of a mirror, record yourself, or rope in some friends for feedback. The more you speak out loud, the more natural it becomes, and the more assertive you'll feel. It's all about putting in the reps, folks. So, let's hit that practice grind and watch our assertiveness soar! ???

When presenters are nervous they often do either of the following: - are frozen on the spot and look expressionless; - are over animated and gesticulating too much, drawing their audience’s attention to needless hand gestures or a uncontrolled swing from foot to foot for example, which is distracting. Getting feedback or videoing a practice delivery of the presentation is very helpful in order to avoid either of these problems. Trying to move naturally and underline important points with appropriate gestures, as well as being expressive, can really help convey the message more confidently and assertively.

Adopt a posture that conveys confidence: stand straight, make eye contact, and avoid slouching. Use deliberate gestures to emphasize points, which can make your delivery more impactful. Control your facial expressions to reflect the seriousness or enthusiasm of your message. Move purposefully during your speech rather than pacing nervously. These body language techniques not only boost your own confidence but also enhance your audience's perception of your assertiveness and authority on the stage.

Utilize assertive body language to convey confidence and presence. Maintain strong posture, make eye contact, and use purposeful gestures to emphasize key points and engage your audience. Project confidence through your nonverbal cues to establish credibility and command attention.

Picture this: standing tall, locking eyes, and using gestures like a maestro conducting a symphony. That's the power of assertive body language. So, straighten that spine, folks. Own your space, maintain eye contact, and let your movements underscore your message. Slouching or fidgeting? Not on our watch. Assertive body language exudes confidence, grabs attention, and leaves a lasting impression. So, let's harness the power of our posture and command that stage like a boss! ????

Being assertive means to have or to show a confident and forceful personality - and nothing speaks volumes than your voice. Loud without shouting, clear without vocal crutches, confident in the information you share and the way you introduce it to the audience. Take into consideration of preparing your voice in advance in order to make sure that you will sound focused, gentle, clear and in charge of your speech. Diction, breathing, food and bev are the 4 elements that are supporting your preparation - always take them with you in the journey.

Imagine this: every word you speak is like a laser beam, cutting through the noise with precision. That's the clarity we're aiming for. So, articulate your words like you mean it, folks. Modulate your voice for emphasis, and pace yourself for maximum impact. No mumbling or speed-talking allowed—let's keep it crystal clear. When your message is easy to grasp, you command attention and exude confidence like a boss. So, let's speak up, speak clearly, and own that stage! ??

Prepare to handle objections or pushback from the audience with confidence and poise. Acknowledge differing viewpoints respectfully, address concerns directly, and provide evidence or reasoning to support your stance. Respond calmly and confidently to maintain control of the conversation.

One of the greatest things I’ve learned is that you do not have to know everything to build a reputation as a reliable source of information. If someone asks you a question and you don’t know the answer, the worst thing you can do is say what you think it is. Instead, if you don’t know, there is more respect in saying “I don’t know, but I will get that answer for you,” (or something similar) than giving the incorrect answer confidently.

Picture this: you're on stage, and a tough question comes your way. Stay cool, folks. Take a deep breath, listen intently, and respond thoughtfully. Acknowledge the other person's perspective with respect, but don't waver in your stance. Confidence is key here. Stand firm on your position, assertively reiterate your point, and maintain your poise throughout. This shows you're open to dialogue yet unshakeable in your convictions. So, let's face those challenges head-on and handle pushback with grace and assertiveness! ????

Imagine this: you're not just speaking to a crowd—you're having a conversation. Ask rhetorical questions, share anecdotes, or invite them to join in demonstrations. This interaction isn't just about building rapport; it's about asserting your expertise in a way that resonates. When your audience feels involved, they're more than listeners—they're active participants. And that, my friends, amps up your assertiveness on stage like nothing else. So, let's keep that dialogue flowing and assert our expertise with confidence and flair! ???

Foster interaction and engagement with your audience to demonstrate assertiveness and leadership. Encourage questions, facilitate discussions, or incorporate interactive elements such as polls or group activities to involve your audience and establish rapport.

In addition to the above strategies, consider the importance of authenticity, self-awareness, and adaptability in assertive communication. Be genuine in your interactions, recognize and embrace your strengths and limitations, and remain flexible and adaptable in response to different speaking situations. By prioritizing assertiveness in your public speaking, you can inspire confidence, influence others, and achieve your communication goals effectively.