Introduction
G’day Perth. When folks talk about public speakers, most picture someone in a suit, running through slides at a big work event. Or maybe one of those high-energy types shouting about success and goals. But that’s only one side of it. But let me tell you,peakers are way more than that. They’re storytellers, crowd-warmers, and sometimes accidental comedians who know how to make a room come alive. Here at Nathan Baws, we’ve coached and cheered on heaps of public speakers across Western Australia, and we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright funny.
We’re not here to give you a dry lecture. Nope, we’re spilling seven hilarious truths about public speakers that most won’t admit—but we’re not most people. These come from years of working with speakers, from nervous newbies to stage pros, right here in Perth. Whether you’re planning to book public speakers for your next event or thinking about grabbing the mic yourself, this is the real stuff you need to hear. Let’s get into it!
What You’ll Get Out of This
- Public speakers are just folks like you and me, with a knack for connection.
- A good laugh can win any crowd.
- Prep and practice are the backbone of a great talk.
- Perth audiences are tough but awesome to crack.
- Anyone can become a public speaker with a bit of grit.
- Where to find help to shine on stage in WA.
Truth 1: Public Speakers Love Their Mirror Time
Why Mirrors Are a Go-To
Ever wonder how public speakers get their gestures just right? A lot of them practice in front of a mirror. It’s not about checking their hair—it’s about seeing how their smile, nod, or hand wave comes across. Mirrors let speakers tweak their vibe before they hit the stage.
The Mirror Speech Ritual
Imagine catching a public speaker mid-keynote, talking to their bathroom mirror like it’s a packed room. Sounds weird, but it’s how many prep. They’re testing their energy, pacing, and expressions, building confidence for the real deal. It’s like a solo rehearsal that pays off big.
A Nathan Baws Tale
One of our clients, a rookie public speaker, got so carried away practicing in front of her mirror that she bumped into a shelf and sent books flying. She laughed it off, and her next talk at a Perth school was a smash hit. At Nathan Baws, we tell speakers to give mirror practice a go—it’s a simple trick that works.
Try It Yourself
If you want to join speakers on stage, stand in front of a mirror and run through your opening lines. Watch your face and hands, and don’t hold back. It feels odd at first, but it’s a surefire way to boost your stage presence.
Truth 2: Microphones Can Be Public Speakers’ Worst Nightmare
Tech Troubles Are Part of the Gig
Public speakers rely on microphones to make sure everyone in the room can hear. But let’s be honest — mics can be a hassle. Batteries run flat, the sound cuts out, or that awful screeching feedback kicks in. Every public speaker has had a moment where the mic fails right when they needed it most.
Perth’s Venue Lottery
Perth venues are a mixed bag. Some have killer sound systems, others feel like you’re shouting into a tin can. Public speakers always check the setup early, but surprises still happen. One of our Nathan Baws speakers once sounded like a robot at a community hall gig due to a dodgy mic, but they kept the crowd laughing.
How the Pros Cope
Good public speakers show up ready. Some bring their own mic. Others know how to project their voice without one, like they’re speaking to a crowd outside. Staying calm, keeping people listening — that’s what makes great speakers stand out.
Quick Tips for Speakers and Organisers
If you’re trying to be one of those confident public speakers, practise without a mic now and then. It helps your voice carry. And if you’re booking public speakers, always check the sound gear. It makes a real difference on the day.
Truth 3: Even Great Public Speakers Forget Their Lines
Nerves Are Normal
Doesn’t matter how long they’ve prepared — even experienced speakers can lose their place. Could be someone coughing, dodgy lights, or just nerves kicking in. Happens to all speakers — it’s part of the job.
It’s How You Handle It
The best public speakers bounce back. They might crack a joke, tell a quick story, or ask the crowd something to reset. One of our speakers blanked at a Perth event and said, “Anyone else having a tough day?” The whole room laughed. Just like that, they were back on track.
A Simple Tip for When You Freeze
If you’re new to being one of those speakers, keep a couple of easy stories ready. Something short and relatable. A quick reset like that keeps the audience with you.
Truth 4: Good Public Speakers Wear Comfy Shoes
Comfort Over Style, Always
Public speakers might look sharp, but check their shoes — it’s usually sneakers or flats. Standing for hours means comfort comes first. The best speakers know that.
Long Days, Sore Feet? No Thanks
A full-day event is tough enough. Heels or tight dress shoes only make it harder. Experienced speakers stick with shoes that let them stand, walk, and focus on the talk — not their aching feet.
A Nathan Baws Shoe Mishap
One of our speakers showed up to a fancy Perth gala in bright trainers. The crowd didn’t care—they were too busy cheering her stories. It’s a lesson: speakers shine by being themselves, not by sticking to a dress code.
Advice for the Stage
If you’re starting as a public speaker, get shoes you can walk in for hours. Comfort fuels confidence. Event planners, let speakers know the stage setup so they can dress smart and practical.
Truth 5: Perth Crowds Push Public Speakers to Be Their Best
Why Perth Audiences Stand Out
Perth folks are savvy and quick to spot a boring talk. Public speakers have to bring their best to keep them engaged, but when they do, the connection is electric. Perth crowds reward speakers who deliver with heart.
Cracking the Local Code
To win over Perth audiences, speakers use relatable touches. A mention of a sunny day at Scarborough Beach or the chaos of Friday traffic builds instant rapport. Humor and honesty are must-haves.
What We’ve Learned
At Nathan Baws, we’ve coached speakers for all sorts of Perth gigs—school talks, corporate events, you name it. One speaker we trained got a standing ovation after joking about a local bakery’s famous pies. Public speakers who tie into WA life hit the mark.
Tips for Connecting
Public speakers, do your homework on your audience and sprinkle in local references. If you’re booking speakers, share info about your crowd—it helps them tailor a talk that lands.
Truth 6: Public Speakers Never Stop Sharpening Their Skills
There’s No “Perfect” Speaker
Even the slickest public speakers keep learning. They read books, take courses, and watch other public speakers to pick up new tricks. The best speakers know growth never stops.
Where to Learn
Perth has tons of resources for public speakers, from Toastmasters clubs to workshops. At Nathan Baws, we point public speakers to local events where they can watch pros and get inspired. Studying great talks sparks ideas for your own.
Why Coaching Feels Like Magic
Helping speakers find their voice is what gets us out of bed at Nathan Baws. Seeing someone go from shaky to unstoppable is the best part of our job. We’ve guided speakers at every level, and the journey’s always a thrill.
Keep Growing
If you’re one of those speakers, record your talks when you can and watch them back. Listen to how it sounds. Ask people what they reckon. The public speakers who keep learning and asking questions are the ones who keep improving.
Truth 7: You Could Be a Public Speaker Too
No Fancy Skills Needed
You don’t need a loud voice or fancy qualifications to be one of those speakers. What matters most is having something real to share and the guts to stand up and say it. Public speakers come from everywhere — people in offices, retired folks, tradies, even students still at school. Anyone can step up and give it a go.
How to Start
Try speaking at a work meeting or a local club. Small gigs build confidence. Public speakers get better with every talk, and feedback helps you tweak your style. Nathan Baws offers coaching to ease you into it.
Perth Success Stories
We’ve trained speakers who started from scratch. One client, a Perth nurse, went from staff briefings to keynoting at health conferences. Public speakers win when they focus on what fires them up.
Your First Move
Thinking about being one of those public speakers? You’ve got to start somewhere. Could be a Nathan Baws workshop. Could be grabbing a few mates and practising a talk. The more chances you take, the better you get. That’s how public speakers learn. It’s just doing it, bit by bit.
Last Thing to Say
Public speakers aren’t perfect. They’re not meant to be. They’re people with stories, and they’ve worked out how to share them so others listen. Maybe you’re booking speakers for an event in Perth. Maybe you’re keen to give it a go yourself. either way, it’s never about being perfect. It’s about showing up, having a go, saying what matters, and picking up something new each time. That’s how you get better.
We’re here to help. Whether you want to step up as one of those public speakers, or you need a talk that gets people listening, we’ve got your back. Head over to nathanbaws.com and we’ll sort it out with you.Event planners, let speakers know the stage setup so they can dress smart and practical.
FAQs
What makes a standout public speaker?
It’s not fancy slides or perfect words. It’s real stories. It’s speaking honestly. It’s staying steady when things don’t go to plan. A good public speaker prepares, sure. Maybe throws in a laugh or two. But what really sticks with people? When they can tell it’s real. That’s what makes a public speaker worth listening to.
Can anyone be a public speaker?
Yep! If you’ve got a story, you’re in. With practice and coaching, public speakers from any background can shine, and Nathan Baws can help.
How do public speakers beat stage fright?
now your stuff, try breathing tricks, and start small. Public speakers get comfier with time, turning nerves into excitement.
What’s the cost of hiring public speakers in Perth?
It varies—some public speakers charge a few hundred, others thousands. Nathan Baws tailors options to fit your budget.
How do I become a public speaker in Perth?
Join local clubs, try small gigs, and get coaching. Nathan Baws guides public speakers to build confidence and skills.
Are there events for public speakers in Perth?
Plenty! Seminars, meetups, and festivals need public speakers. Nathan Baws helps you find and prep for them.
What topics do public speakers tackle?
Leadership, wellbeing, growth—anything real. Public speakers do best when they’re passionate about their topic.
What if a public speaker messes up?
It’s normal. Public speakers laugh it off, share a story, and keep going. Crowds love the realness.
Do public speakers need training?
It’s not a must, but it helps. Nathan Baws coaching sharpens skills for public speakers at any stage.
How do I reach Nathan Baws for public speaker support?
Pop over to nathanbaws.com and drop us a message. We’re here for public speakers and event planners alike.
