The heart of public speaking

Business Matters Beyond the Bottom Line

- FRANCIS J. KONG

A few years ago, I gave a talk to HR Practitioners gathered together in a national conference. After the session, I received a letter that warmed my heart:

Congratulations on a very well-applauded lecture! Not only was it enlightening, but it was also very entertaining. The bits and pieces of insights you shared are lifetime treasures. How I wish I could share them with the rest of my management group.

Words like these remind me why I do what I do. I speak not for fame or money but to help people, add value and hopefully touch lives.

I have encountered people who expressed their desire to speak like me. They asked me to provide tips so here we are—and the following advice I hope will help them understand the heart of public speaking.

The key to successful public speaking lies in building connections with audiences rather than achieving flawless delivery. The ability to connect with people and inspire them while delivering essential messages defines effective public speaking.

Someone once said:

• Applause before a speech begins is faith.

• Applause during a speech is hope.

• Applause when the speech is over is charity.

The most skilled speakers understand that applause holds no real value. It is the lives you touch. When applause arrives, it should be accepted with a humble attitude.

Public speaking isn't just about words; it's about the whole package. Harvey Diamond, author of Fit for Life, says: