?? Tips for First-Time Speakers! ??

Public speaking used to be one of my biggest fears, and many people are surprised when I tell them it’s been a long—and far from linear—journey to overcome it.

It all started back in 2019 when I signed up for The Speaker Academy, with incredible support from Keir Bowden and Jodi Wagner . Like so many things I take on, the process was filled with moments of self-doubt and confidence crises.

Fast forward to 2024, and with the support of Christie Fidura introducing me to the stage for an interview at Salesforce World Tour London, I used that as a rehearsal for my debut at London's Calling —an experience I’ll never forget! ?? You can read more about that journey here: From Fear to Triumph: My Journey as a First-Time Speaker

Afterwards, I shared some of the advice in a post that truly helped me along the way. So I decided to turn those insights—and tips from other Salesforce speaking stars—into an article to help others facing the same challenge.

Check it out and let me know your thoughts! ??

?? Practice, practice, practice! Repeat your words until they flow naturally.

?? Record yourself and listen back. Yes, it feels awkward, but it’s the best way to know if your points are landing.

?? Dress rehearsal! Get a friend or colleague to watch you and keep going until you feel comfortable. (Thank you Sarah Metcalfe ??)

?????? Have a small audience in the days leading up to the big day—it’s great for building confidence.

?? Don’t read directly from your slides. Use prompts and bullet points for a more engaging and conversational delivery.

?? If you go off course, it’s OK! No one knows what you planned to say, so just roll with it!

?? Bring your own equipment! Cables, slide clicker, laptop charger—don’t let tech hiccups get in your way.

?? Visit your room ahead of time. Test everything out, make friends with the tech team—shoutout to David Carnes for that tip!

?? Remember, everyone is rooting for you! Your audience is there to support you, not see you fail.

?? And of course, smile and enjoy the experience! - highly recommended by Barbara Laskowska

Salesforce Speaking Stars' Tips

• ?? Bring an over-organised friend who has a bag full of tech! – Emily Todd
• ?? Make any text on your slide BIGGER than you have it now, and then maybe make it bigger again. – Todd Halfpenny
• ?? Create two versions of your slides—one to talk over and another with more explainer text for distribution later. – Damien Ribbans
• ? Take your time—if you know your topic well, you’ll be absolutely fine. – Oliver Taylor
• ?Embrace the nerves—instead of trying to make them go away (because that’s not always possible), channel that energy as excitement and enjoy sharing something you’re passionate about. – Oliver Taylor

I really hope this helps and please contribute your tips in the comments below—these insights help everyone! ??