7 Vital Attributes of a Good Public Speaker to Make Your Perth Event Pop
Introduction In our work with leaders and presenters, we focus on the key attributes of a good public speaker that consistently produce memorable, persuasive and confident presentations. The attributes of a good public speaker include clarity, connection, preparation, presence and adaptability. In this article, we outline these attributes of a good public speaker in detail, offer actionable guidance, and invite you to connect with Nathan Baws for tailored coaching to develop these attributes in your own practice. Key Takeaways Understanding the Core Attributes of a Good Public Speaker What do we mean by the attributes of a good public speaker When we describe the attributes of a good public speaker, we refer to observable abilities and internal qualities: vocal control, structured content, emotional intelligence, audience awareness and adaptability. These attributes of a good public speaker create trust and influence. Why the attributes of a good public speaker matter The attributes of a good public speaker shape outcomes from motivating teams to winning clients. Mastering these attributes of a good public speaker reduces anxiety and increases impact. How do we assess the attributes of a good public speaker We evaluate the attributes of a good public speaker through rehearsal, audience feedback and objective metrics such as clarity and engagement. This helps us create a personalised development plan for each speaker. Attribute 1: Clarity and Structure Define your message The first attribute of a good public speaker is a clear, concise message. Define the central idea, express it early and repeat it. We advise writing a one-sentence thesis to anchor your talk. Logical flow and signposting Structure your talk with a beginning, middle and end. Use signposts to guide listeners. Organise points so they build logically. This is an attribute of a good public speaker that ensures comprehension. Actionable practice Exercise: Draft your talk outline with three main points and rehearse transitions. Time each section and refine. This practical step reinforces the attribute of a good public speaker: clarity of structure. Attribute 2: Vocal Technique and Delivery Pitch, pace and pause One essential attribute of a good public speaker is vocal variety. Modulate pitch, control pace and use pauses deliberately to emphasise key points. We guide you through vocal exercises to develop these skills. Articulation and projection Clear articulation and appropriate projection are attributes of a good public speaker. Practise consonant clarity and breath support to maintain energy without strain. Actionable practice Exercise: Record a minute of speech and evaluate pitch variation, pace and clarity. Repeat with focused breathing drills. This builds the attribute of a good public speaker: confident vocal delivery. Attribute 3: Presence and Confidence Non-verbal communication Presence is a visible attribute of a good public speaker. Body language, posture and facial expression convey confidence. We teach posture alignment and purposeful movement to enhance presence. Mindset and preparation Confidence stems from preparation. The attributes of a good public speaker include rehearsal, familiarity with the material, and mental readiness. Adopt routines that prime focus and calm nerves. Actionable practice Exercise: Practice a two-minute opening with deliberate posture and eye contact. Record and review to refine presence. This directly improves a good public speaker’s attributes. Attribute 4: Audience Connection and Empathy Know your audience An attribute of a good public speaker is audience awareness. Research your audience’s needs, use relevant examples, and align your message with their interests. Engage through questions and stories Connection grows when we invite participation. Use questions, stories and relatable language to make your attributes of a good public speaker apparent through connection. Actionable practice Exercise: Prepare two audience prompts and one short story that illustrates your core message. Use these to practice the attribute of a good public speaker: genuine connection. Attribute 5: Adaptability and Handling Challenges Read the room Adaptability is an attribute of a good public speaker. Monitor engagement and adjust pace, content or tone in response to audience signals. Manage interruptions and questions Prepared responses and a calm demeanour are attributes of a good public speaker when facing interruptions. Use bridging phrases and repeat questions to maintain control. Actionable practice Exercise: Simulate interruptions in rehearsal and practise concise, composed replies. This strengthens the attribute of a good public speaker: graceful adaptability. Attribute 6: Authenticity and Credibility Be genuine Authenticity is a defining attribute of a good public speaker. Share an appropriate personal experience and align your words with your values. Authentic delivery builds trust and credibility. Use evidence and stories Support claims with evidence, examples and stories. A good public speaker balances logic and emotion to persuade effectively. Actionable practice Exercise: Identify one personal anecdote and one data point to anchor your next talk. Practice delivering both with sincerity. This cultivates the attribute of a good public speaker: credible authenticity. Attribute 7: Preparation and Continuous Improvement Design rehearsals Preparation is an essential attribute of a public speaker. Rehearse with a focus on timing, transitions and audience engagement. Use video reviews to refine performance. Seek feedback and iterate Feedback loops help us improve. Collect audience feedback and execute small changes. The attribute of a good public speaker is sustained by iterative refinement. Actionable practice Exercise: After each presentation, note three improvements and one strength. Implement these in your next rehearsal to strengthen your public-speaking skills. Applying the Attributes of a Public Speaker in Different Contexts Corporate presentations In corporate settings, the attributes of a public speaker include concise messaging, stakeholder alignment and measurable outcomes. We recommend adapting language to executive audiences and emphasising ROI. Keynote and conference speaking For keynotes, the attributes of a public speaker emphasise narrative arc, emotional impact and audience takeaway. Craft a memorable opening and a clear call to action. Workshops and training In workshops, the attributes of a public speaker focus on interaction, clarity and practical exercises. Facilitate learning with structured activities and immediate application. Practical Tools and Exercises to Develop the Attributes of a Public Speaker Daily vocal routine Practice humming, breath control and articulation for ten minutes daily to develop the attribute of a public speaker: consistent









