Narrowing Your Topic: The Key to Confident Speaking and Sharing Expertise

When it comes to sharing your expertise, whether in a speech, presentation, or pitch, think of it like setting a course for a journey. Imagine setting sail without a clear destination—you’d end up drifting aimlessly. The same goes for your presentations or talks. Without narrowing your focus, your message will be all over the place, leaving your audience confused or disengaged.

Here’s why narrowing your topic and honing your expertise is crucial, not just for speeches, but for any time you’re sharing your knowledge.

Start with Focus: Clarity is Key

When you're sharing your expertise, it’s tempting to cover everything you know, but too much information can overwhelm your audience. Whether you’re giving a presentation at work, addressing a board of directors, or delivering a keynote at your alma mater, focusing on a specific aspect of your subject helps you deliver a clearer, more impactful message.

For example, if you’re presenting to your team about a new project management tool, you could narrow it down to “How this tool boosts productivity for remote teams.” If you’re speaking to investors about your startup, focus on “Our growth strategy for the next quarter” instead of trying to tell your company’s entire story. Narrowing your topic allows you to go deeper, providing valuable insights that your audience will remember.

Know Your Material: Preparation Matters Everywhere

Once you’ve chosen your topic, knowing your material is key. Deep knowledge of your subject matter gives you confidence and authority. But remember, you don’t need to be an expert in every aspect. Focus on the critical elements that support your message and be ready to adapt if the conversation shifts.

The same rules apply to various settings:

• Board meetings: If you’re presenting to the board, they don’t need a data dump—they want specific, actionable insights. Narrow your presentation to what matters most.
• Startup founders pitching investors: Investors are busy, so keep your pitch focused on the most compelling parts of your story, like your growth strategy, your market, or your differentiators.
• Guest lectures or talks: If you’re speaking at a university or conference, focus on one key lesson or experience, rather than trying to cover every aspect of your career.

No matter the setting, your audience will appreciate a presentation that is focused, organized, and relevant to their interests.

Build Your Expertise: Continuous Learning

Building expertise takes time. It’s about more than just talking the talk—you need to walk the walk. This means not only practicing what you preach but also continuously learning from others. You can stand on the shoulders of giants by learning from experts who came before you. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be, and the more confident you’ll sound.

Here’s how you can continuously build your knowledge:

1. Read Books and Articles: Seek out books and in-depth articles related to your area of expertise. These sources offer valuable insights that will enhance your understanding.
2. Follow Industry Experts: Subscribe to blogs and newsletters by leaders in your field. They often share timely advice and unique perspectives that can help keep you sharp.
3. Listen to Podcasts: Podcasts are an easy way to stay current. Many feature interviews with experts and provide real-time updates on trends and challenges in your industry. (Side note: I have three podcasts, if you are into sailing, speaking, or startups, you might want to check them out .
4. Watch Videos and Attend Webinars: Platforms like YouTube and LinkedIn are full of educational videos. Just make sure to vet the creators and watch content from credible authorities in your field.
5. Attend Conferences: Both in-person and virtual conferences give you access to the latest thinking and innovations. They also offer great networking opportunities with others who share your interests.
6. Hands-On Experience: Whenever possible, apply what you’re learning. Real-life experience deepens your understanding and adds authenticity to your presentations.

It’s More Than Just Speeches: Expertise Applies Everywhere

The focus and research you put into a speech also apply when you're sharing expertise in any setting. Whether you're speaking to a group of investors, leading a workshop, or delivering a presentation to coworkers, these same principles will help you succeed.

For startup founders, especially, honing a focused message is key. When you’re pitching investors or sharing your company’s story, a clear narrative will help your audience follow along and stay engaged. Focus on what matters most—whether it’s your company’s growth story, your product innovation, or your market strategy. That clarity and preparation will help you build trust with your audience.

Remember, standing on the shoulders of giants—those who’ve come before you and the knowledge they’ve shared—can elevate your expertise. By learning from experts, you can focus on what you're passionate about and enjoy, allowing you to share your own experiences and knowledge with confidence.

Share What You Learn: Engage Your Audience

Sharing valuable information isn’t just for the stage or the boardroom. Consider sharing the resources you’ve found useful with your audience, whether that’s on social media or during your talk. Mention your favorite books, podcasts, or articles—doing so not only helps your audience but also positions you as someone who curates high-quality content.

By sharing the sources that have shaped your understanding, you invite your audience to follow you on social media for more insights. This keeps you top of mind and helps you continue the conversation beyond your presentation. Plus, it shows that you’re not just an expert—you’re someone who is continuously learning and evolving.

Walk the Walk: Apply What You Learn

To truly connect with your audience, you need to go beyond theory. Applying what you learn in your own work or business demonstrates your commitment to the topic. For example, if you’re a startup founder sharing your growth strategy, it’s important to show how you’ve implemented these strategies in real life. If you’re speaking on leadership, share examples of how you’ve led teams or solved challenges.

This hands-on experience not only enhances your credibility but also makes your presentations more engaging. Audiences are drawn to speakers who practice what they preach, so let your personal experiences shine through.

Why Focus and Preparation Lead to Success

Whether you’re giving a speech, making a pitch, or presenting to colleagues, narrowing your topic and focusing on what you know best will set you up for success. By building your knowledge, sharing valuable resources, and applying what you learn, you can create presentations that resonate with your audience and keep them engaged.

Remember, it’s not just about delivering information—it’s about curating an experience for your audience. Narrow your focus, immerse yourself in learning, and share the best of what you know with those around you. That’s the key to confident and effective communication, no matter the setting.

If you’re looking for help with narrowing your focus, crafting compelling speeches, or delivering a powerful pitch, I work with clients to fine-tune their presentations, media strategies, TEDx talks , and more. Whether you're preparing for a big pitch or want to sharpen your public speaking skills, check out what I offer on my website . Feel free to book a time for an intro call , and let's explore how we can work together to achieve your goals.