3 Pillars of Powerful Public Speaking

Communication is one of the most powerful capacities God graced our lives with. Regardless of the method used (writing, live address, video, etc), possessing the ability to arrange and deliver a series of thoughts in a manner that brings impact, challenge and change to another person is an amazing and humbling opportunity.

I have been blessed to speak in front of audiences for more than twenty years. And, although I have enjoyed some highlight speaking experiences, many of my messages sank just like the Titanic - they were cold, slow and scary for everyone! Well, through it all, I was able to finally identify three major pillars of communication that I began building each of my messages on. Maybe this simple structure will help you, too.

1. CONTENT
    As communicators, we understand that our message has to actually say something. There are fewer things worse that listening to someone's empty babble for 28-minutes in the voice of Charlie Brown's teacher... "Wah, wah wah-wah, wah!" As speakers, we are (rightfully) expected to deliver content-rich information that is worthy of being heard - filled with truth, insight and perspective that will educate and empower the listener. Remember to always keep 'personal growth' your primary purpose for studying, and then develop your message with such a volume of information that some of the content doesn't make "the final cut". Only then will you enjoy the security, confidence and excitement that every effective speaker needs.

2. CREDIBILITY
    A message's Impact is directly related to the credibility of its messenger. Too many believe that a strong resume can make up for a weak character. This is simply not true. Never forget that the validity of our voice directly effects the impact (believability and receptivity) of our message - especially in the church-world. Once a minister loses public credibility, his voice is immediately weakened and the reach of his message is crippled. Make wise, quality and intentional decisions in your private life. How you handle your private time will determine your public potential - believe it.

3. CONNECTION
    My goal as a communicator isn't to just be heard, but to be effective with my message. In order for this to happen, deliberate ingredients must be added to the presentation. We can own the greatest message on paper, but if it doesn't connect with our audience, it's useless. Here are some key elements in reaching your crowd.

• Believe your message. Be excited about your message before you deliver it publicly. Your passion, smile and energy will inspire those listening. After all, if you aren't enjoying your talk, then... well, never mind.
• Engage the crowd. Having them stand, move, clap or respond in a certain way. Allow the listener to become a participant with your message - not just a spectator. Never under-estimate the unforgettable power of an object or illustration to make your point clear. Get creative, have fun and don't be afraid of crowd response.
• Smile. Yep, that's it... just smile. If you aren't normally a funny person, then please don't try to tell a joke - but at least smile and warm the atmosphere. The crowd will love it.
• Ride the wave of pop-culture. Although this is partly "content" oriented, it has everything to do with connecting with your audience as well. Rip-off the popular title of a hit tv program, song or movie for your message title. Reference iconic people/personalities in the media and news. This will make your message memorable and, yes, somewhat relevant.
• Go personal. One of the most powerful connectors for the audience to hear is your life-story. Keep it real. You may be surprised to know that people relate with pain and failure quicker than victory and success. Encourage people with your story. Vulnerability and self-disclosure is a highway into people's hearts.
• End with a challenge. Never let your listener leave without a 'take-away' from your message. Challenge them to change or enhance a certain area of their life. Your message made them think... now your challenge can make them act.

I hope these keys (or some aspect of them) will help you successfully prepare and deliver your next presentation with maximum impact. I do realize that speaking styles differ from speaker to speaker, and I enjoy learning from each one of them. However, it is my personal experience that these three essentials remains necessary for successful public speaking: message content, speaker credibility and audience connection. Deliver this trio and your message will carry the potential of impacting someone for a lifetime.