Public Speaking Skills Training

I've delivered 500+ keynotes. Here's a pro-tip for speaking/presenting. Your pre-performance ritual isn't optional. It's essential. The difference between good and transformational always comes down to those final 15 minutes. HERE'S MY NON-NEGOTIABLE RITUAL: T-minus 30 minutes: Tech check complete. No more logistics. T-minus 15 minutes: Complete isolation begins. This is when I start programming my nervous system for peak state. T-minus 10 minutes: Active preparation. I pace backstage, repeating my opening lines until they're cellular: "Change itself has changed..." "When we think about transformation..." "Let me tell you about the moment..." T-minus 5 minutes: Full state activation. No conversations. No distractions. Just presence. Why this matters: Your opening determines everything. If those first 30 seconds land perfectly, you're in flow for the entire presentation. If they don't, you spend 10 minutes trying to find your rhythm. THE SCIENCE: Your prefrontal cortex can hold 7±2 pieces of information. Your opening sequence needs all of that bandwidth. A "quick chat" deletes 3-4 of those slots. Now you're on stage trying to REMEMBER your opening instead of BEING it. FOR SPEAKERS/PRESENTERS: Protect your ritual. Write it into your contract: "15-minute isolation period before stage time required for optimal performance." This isn't being difficult. It's being professional. FOR THOSE HIRING SPEAKERS: Want maximum impact? Give us space to create it. We're not being antisocial. We're preparing to transform your audience. Think of us like athletes before a game or surgeons before surgery. The ritual isn't preference, it's preparation. THE FRAMEWORK: 1. Decide your optimal activation time (10-30 minutes) 2. Communicate boundaries clearly and early 3. Design your ritual for YOUR nervous system 4. Practice until it's automatic 5. Never apologize for protecting your performance Your boundaries aren't limitations. They're the architecture of excellence. What pre-performance ritual would unlock your next level?

After 100+ MUNs, 50+ keynote sessions, and public speaking events at IIM,IIT,DU Here are 10 hacks that help me perform under pressure: 📌 Use the “3-Second Rule” Start speaking within 3 seconds of reaching the podium. The longer you wait, the harder it gets. 📌 Speak in 3-Point Structures People remember things better in threes. Instead of rambling, structure your speech into three key points. 📌 Power Pause for Impact Before making an important statement, pause for 2-3 seconds. It builds anticipation and makes your words more powerful. 📌 Control Your Tempo Nervous speakers talk fast. Slow down—pausing between ideas makes you sound more authoritative. 📌 Eye Contact = Confidence Instead of scanning randomly, focus on one person for 3 seconds, then move to another. This creates a natural rhythm. 📌 Master “Bridging” Phrases If you forget what to say, use phrases like: “Another key point to consider is…” “What’s important to remember is…” This keeps your flow intact. 📌 The 4-4-4-4 Breathing Trick Before speaking, do this Navy SEAL breathing technique: Inhale for 4 seconds Hold for 4 seconds Exhale for 4 seconds Hold for 4 seconds It instantly calms nerves. 📌 Start with a Question Instead of a boring introduction, grab attention with a thought-provoking question. Example: “What if I told you that confidence is actually a skill, not a talent?” 📌 Practice in High-Pressure Situations Rehearse with loud music in the background (trains focus). Stand on one leg while speaking (improves balance). Record yourself & analyze (spot weaknesses). MOST IMPORTANT: ⭐ Smiling and using open hand gestures makes you look approachable and confident. Avoid crossing your arms or fidgeting. 🍪 Bonus Tip: Public Speaking = Repetition The best speakers aren’t born—they train like athletes. The more you practice, the better you get. Which tip are you trying first? Let me know! LinkedIn LinkedIn News LinkedIn Guide to Creating #linkedin #publicspeaking #linkedintips #linkedinnews

Found this 1980 ad about writing clearly. 65 years later, it's still the best writing advice I've ever seen: 1) Know exactly what you want to say before you start Most people start writing and figure it out as they go. That's why most writing sucks. Thompson says outline first, write second. Revolutionary concept, apparently. 2) Start where your readers are, not where you are Don't assume people know what you know. Meet them at their level of understanding, then bring them along. Most "experts" write for other experts and wonder why nobody gets it. 3) Use familiar word combinations Thompson's example: A scientist wrote "The biota exhibited a one hundred percent mortality response." Translation: "All the fish died." Stop trying to sound smart. Start trying to be clear. 4) Arrange your points logically Put the most important stuff first. Then the next most important. Then the least important. Seems obvious, but most people do it backwards. 5) Use "first-degree" words Thompson says some words bring immediate images to mind. Others need to be "translated" through first-degree words before you see them. "Precipitation" => "Rain" "Utilize" => "Use" "Facilitate" => "Help" 6) Cut the jargon Thompson warns against words and phrases "known only to people with specific knowledge or interests." If your mom wouldn't understand it, rewrite it. 7) Think like your reader, not like yourself Thompson asks: "Do they detract from clarity?" Most writers ask: "Do I sound professional?" Wrong question. TAKEAWAY: This ad is from 1960. The internet didn't exist. Social media wasn't even a concept. But the principles of clear communication haven't changed. Most people still can't write clearly because they're trying to impress instead of express.

🎤 Ever feel like your presentations lack impact?  The first few seconds are critical.   A strong opening grabs attention and sets the tone for success.  Here are 9 unforgettable openers top presenters use to hook their audience:  --- 1️⃣ Start with a Surprising Statistic      ➟ Example: "Did you know 90% of startups fail in the first year?"      Why it works: Shocks the audience and sparks curiosity. 2️⃣ Ask a Bold Question      ➟ Example: "What if one decision could boost your productivity by 40%?"      Why it works: Makes them eager to learn the answer. 3️⃣ Open with a Powerful Quote      ➟ Example: "People will forget what you said, but never how you made them feel." — Maya Angelou      Why it works: Adds credibility and sets a thoughtful tone. 4️⃣ Share a Personal Story      ➟ Example: "Three years ago, I was on the brink of bankruptcy…"      Why it works: Builds trust and creates an emotional connection. 5️⃣ Paint a Vivid Picture      ➟ Example: "Imagine Earth from space, a tiny blue dot… Now imagine it without water."      Why it works: Engages the imagination and sticks with the audience. 6️⃣ Use Humor      ➟ Example: "Why did the marketer get off the trampoline? He was worried about his bounce rate!"      Why it works: Lightens the mood and makes the audience comfortable. 7️⃣ Make a Bold Promise      ➟ Example: "By the end of this talk, you’ll know how to triple your conversion rate."      Why it works: Gives the audience something to look forward to. 8️⃣ Challenge Your Audience      ➟ Example: "Stand up if you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by data…"      Why it works: Encourages participation and energizes the room. 9️⃣ Create a Personal Connection      ➟ Example: "I once stood exactly where you are, wondering if change was possible…"      Why it works: Relates to the audience’s struggles and builds rapport. --- 💡 The right opener can transform your presentation.   Choose one that matches your message and watch your audience stay engaged.  💬 Which opener will you try next?   Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇  📌 Found this helpful? Save it for your next big presentation.   ♻ Share it to inspire your network.   ➡ Follow for more insights on leadership and communication.  

Too many strategies fail in execution—not because they're wrong, but because no one really understands them. To communicate strategy effectively, you need more than a slide deck. You need clarity on 5 core elements: 1. Purpose – Why your organization exists 2. Perspective – How the future should look 3. Priorities – What you'll focus on 4. Plan – When things will happen 5. People – Who will make it happen Each one answers a different question—and together, they tell a compelling story. This carousel breaks it down in a simple, actionable format you can use right away. ↳ Use this as a checklist. ↳ Share it with your team. ↳ Save it for your next off-site. 👉 Swipe through the post to explore each principle. Which of the 5 is most often overlooked in your experience? #StrategyExecution #Leadership #StrategicCommunication #PurposeDriven #OrganizationalClarity #BusinessStrategy #SoulfulStrategy

Here’s how I turn one keynote talk into infinite customized talks. It all starts with this: I built my talk modularly. For context: I speak to many different audiences, who have many different needs. Making a new talk for everyone is impossible — but I want to serve every client uniquely. A modular structure fixes that. The intro and outro are the same (and I improvise personalization for each audience). Then the meat of the talk is built on modules. Each module is about 7-12 minutes long. I start each with a big idea, then tell a compelling story to illustrate it, then offer a takeaway and exercise. Over time, I add, refine, and retire modules. I have five active ones now, and maybe 10 that I've retired. When I’m hired to speak, I do an intro call with the client to learn about the audience, their needs, and their interests. Based on that, as well as how much time I have on stage (30 minutes? 45? 60?), I assemble the talk. Maybe I’ll use the intro, plus modules 1, 2, 4, and 5, and then the outro — and no Q&A. Maybe I’ll use the intro, plus modules 2, 3, and 4, and then the outro — and 15 min of Q&A. Or whatever. A talk easily snaps into place. In my notes, I also give myself suggestions of how each module connects to a certain audience need. For example: If they’re going through X, then I can relate that to a point I make in Module 2. As a result, I have one talk that can be used and delivered in infinite ways — giving me more opportunities to work with clients, but with a lot less work. Want to be more strategic about YOUR work? My newsletter can help — subscribe for free at jasonfeifer.com/newsletter (Or want to explore my speaking at your event? Info at jasonfeifer.com/speaking)

I’ve trained 400,000+ students to speak confidently in meetings, on dates, and in high-stakes situations (like asking for a raise). Here are 3 vocal habits I teach every single one: Before we dive in, briefly imagine a coworker tells you: “I got promoted and doubled my salary.” But they say it in a monotone voice.  No smile. No hand gestures. Do you feel excited for them? Or confused? That’s the power of vocal delivery. Before people process what you said, they subconsciously judge how you said it. If your tone lacks confidence, warmth, or energy—your message doesn’t land. Vocal charisma isn’t about “sounding good.” It’s about sounding believable. Here are 3 ways to start doing that today: 1. Speak in the lowest natural range of your voice Your voice has layers. When you speak in your higher register, you sound anxious—even if your words are calm. When you speak from your lowest natural range, people trust you more. To get there: - Drop your shoulders - Take a deep breath - Speak on the out-breath, not the inhale Try it now: Take a breath and say “hello” at the top of your breath. Now take a breath and say “hello” on the exhale. That second one - that’s the version that sounds confident and feels grounded. ____ 2. Fix vocal fry with one move: speak louder That scratchy, creaky tone (like “uhh… yeah… I guess…”) is vocal fry. It usually happens when you're speaking too softly or from your throat. The fix: Add volume. A stronger voice = clearer tone = more authority. ____ 3. Use volume to signal emotion Once you’ve found your natural pitch and can project clearly, play with volume for impact: - Raise your volume slightly when setting a boundary or deadline - Lower it when you're being vulnerable or sharing something meaningful to draw people in Think of your voice like music - the variation keeps people listening. —- If you want more recognition, more influence, or a raise, start with your voice.

A few years ago, I was in a high stakes meeting with colleagues from Japan. I presented my points confidently, thinking I was making a great impression. But as I scanned the room, I saw blank expressions. No nods. No engagement. Just silence. I panicked. Had I said something wrong? Was my idea unconvincing? After the meeting, one of my Japanese colleagues pulled me aside and said, “Sumit, we really want to understand you, but you speak too fast.” That was my light bulb moment. For years, I assumed that mastering English and business communication was enough to build strong global relationships. But the real challenge wasn’t just the language - it was the rate of speech! Most of us don’t realize that speaking speed varies drastically across cultures. Here’s an eye-opener: ·      In India, we typically speak at 120–150 words per minute. ·      The global standard for clear communication is around 60–80 words per minute. ·      In Japan, where English is not the first language, this rate drops even further. So, what happens when we, as fast speakers, communicate with someone who is used to a much slower pace? Our words blur together. The listener struggles to process. And instead of making an impact, we create confusion. We often assume that if people don’t understand us, we need to repeat ourselves. But the truth is, we don’t need to repeat - we need to slow down, simplify, and pause. If you work in a multicultural environment, here are three things that can dramatically improve your communication: a.   Control your pace: Consciously slow down when speaking to an international audience. What feels “normal” to you might be too fast for them. b.   Use simple language: Smaller sentences. Easier words (vocabulary). c.    Pause & check for understanding: Don’t assume silence means agreement. Ask, “Does that make sense?” or “Would you like me to clarify anything?” I’ve seen professionals struggle in global roles - not because they lack expertise, but because they fail to adjust their communication style to their audience. I’ve also seen leaders who thrive across cultures, simply because they master the art of respectful, clear, and paced communication. If you want to succeed in a global workplace, rate of speech is not just a skill - it’s a strategy. Have you ever faced challenges due to differences in speaking speed? Let’s discuss. #GlobalCommunication #CrossCulturalLeadership #EffectiveCommunication #SoftSkills #CareerGrowth #WorkplaceSuccess #HR

From being a stammerer filled with stage fright to delivering 100+ speeches in 4 years! Here are 10 things I did to train myself to be the best at it: 🎤 Practice Small Chunks: Break your speech into smaller sections and practice each part separately before combining them. This makes it easier to remember and reduces anxiety. 🎤 Record and Review: Record your practice sessions using your phone or a camera. Reviewing these recordings helps identify areas for improvement and track progress over time. 🎤 Gradual Exposure: Start by speaking in front of a mirror, then progress to speaking in front of a small group of friends or family, and gradually increase the audience size. This helps build confidence step-by-step. 🎤 Use Flashcards: Write key points or parts of your speech on flashcards. This helps you stay on track during your speech and reduces the fear of forgetting your lines. 🎤 Join Speaking Clubs: Participate in public speaking clubs like Toastmasters. Regular practice in a supportive environment helps you gain confidence and receive constructive feedback. 🎤 Practice with Distractions: Train yourself to stay focused by practicing your speech in environments with potential distractions, such as a noisy room or with background music playing. 🎤 Mirror Neurons: Watch videos of great speakers and try to mimic their body language and speaking style. This activates your mirror neurons, helping you learn by imitation. 🎤 Mindful Breathing: Before speaking, take deep breaths in for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for four. This helps calm your nerves and centre your mind. 🎤 Positive Visualization: Spend a few minutes each day visualizing yourself giving a successful speech. Picture the audience applauding and yourself speaking confidently. This mental rehearsal can boost your confidence. 🎤 Use Technology: Utilize speech practice apps that provide real-time feedback on your speaking speed, volume, and clarity. This helps you adjust and improve your delivery. When I learned these lessons, I realized that public speaking wasn't something to fear but something to celebrate. To be able to reach more people and create a long-lasting impact! So, if you're struggling like I was, start training your brain. It's not easy, but it's worth it. ❤️ #publicspeaking #growth #communication #softskills