Do you ever feel like your confidence just isn’t where it should be? Whether you’re giving a presentation in front of your peers or talking to someone new, do you have trouble speaking with authority and presence? If so, don’t worry – we’ve all been there.
Fortunately, there are certain techniques that can help boost your confidence when speaking in public. With practice and dedication, these tips will help you become more confident in yourself and the words that come out of your mouth. From body language to vocal tonality, here are 25 powerful tips for how to speak with confidence every time!
1. Stand tall: Being aware of your body language is key to conveying a sense of confidence and self-assurance. Straightening up your posture, rather than slouching or appearing timid, will show others that you are comfortable with yourself in the environment and ready to engage.
2. Make eye contact: Eye contact is one of the most important factors in having successful communication. It helps build trust between you and your listener, making them want to hear what you have to say even more.
3. Smile often: When engaging in conversation, remember to smile! This can create an inviting atmosphere for both parties involved, showing your friendliness and enthusiasm for whatever topic may come up.
4. Use your hands: Gesturing with your hands while speaking can help you emphasize certain points, as well as make your message more engaging for the listener.
5. Practice makes perfect: Before going into any situation where you need to be assertive, practice what you want to say beforehand so it comes out naturally in the moment.
6. Listen: It is important to not only have a confident presence when speaking, but also when listening. Pay attention and be engaged with the person you are conversing with, as it will show that you are taking in what they are saying and truly involved in the conversation.
7. Speak slowly: Don’t be afraid to take your time when speaking. Pausing and emphasizing certain words can help you appear more authoritative in the eyes of the listener.
8. Speak loudly: It is also important to project your voice in order to sound more confident and sure of yourself. Make adjustments if necessary, such as speaking a bit louder or softer depending on the environment.
9. Eliminate filler words: Don’t let yourself be derailed by unnecessary words or phrases. Removing “uh,” “like,” and other similar fillers will allow you to stay focused and sound more professional.
10. Be confident in your statements: Even if you are doubtful about what you are saying, make sure to state it with authority. People will be more likely to believe you if you sound sure of yourself.
11. Use positive language: Embrace the power of positive thinking and try to avoid using negative words or phrases when speaking.
12. Think before you speak: Take a few seconds before you answer a question or make a statement to ensure that your words are meaningful and correctly convey the message you want to get across.
13. Speak from the heart: Believe in what you are saying and project it with conviction. This will help increase your confidence when speaking, as well as make the listener more likely to trust you.
14. Know your audience: Research the people you are speaking to and be aware of the topics they may find interesting or important. Being prepared ahead of time will make it easier for you to speak with confidence during your interaction.
15. Add humor: A joke here and there can lighten up the atmosphere and make conversation more enjoyable.
16. Avoid jargon: Unless you are speaking to an audience with knowledge in the subject, try to avoid technical language that may confuse or overwhelm them.
17. Stay calm: Don’t let your nerves get the best of you. Taking deep breaths and focusing on your breathing can help you stay composed during conversations.
18. Be honest: Honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to speaking with confidence. Don’t be afraid to admit if you don’t know something or aren’t sure about a certain topic.
19. Avoid stammering and other speech impediments: If you have trouble with this, practice speaking slowly and enunciating your words.
20. Avoid using filler phrases: Instead of saying “you know” or “like” try to be precise with your words. This can help you sound more confident when speaking.
21. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes: Everyone makes them, so try not to focus on them too much. Instead, learn from your mistakes and move forward.
22. Make eye contact: Looking someone in the eyes when you are speaking shows that you are confident and sure of yourself.
23. Be aware of your body language: Posture is a big factor in how confident you come across. Stand tall and be mindful of the gestures your body is making to ensure that it matches with what you are saying.
24. Use storytelling: Using stories to illustrate a point can help keep people engaged in the conversation and make them remember what you say better.
25. Enjoy yourself: Have fun when speaking and don’t be afraid to joke around or laugh. This will make people more likely to listen to you and take your words seriously.
Read more about how to speak with confidence
The new book, Speak with Confidence, is getting glowing reviews from readers who are taking the tips and advice to heart. The book is filled with actionable strategies that can help anyone increase their confidence and become more successful in speaking engagements. From speaking loudly and eliminating filler words, to making eye contact and adding humor, the book provides readers with the tools they need to become more confident and competent speakers. Whether you’re preparing for a speech or just looking for ways to make conversation easier, Speak with Confidence is sure to help! Pick up your copy today and start speaking with confidence.