Why You Suck At Public Speaking As a PR Pro (And What To Do About It)
1. You're Too Focused on Perfection
PR professionals are trained to polish every word, phrase, and sentence until it’s flawless. This obsession with perfection can be your downfall when it comes to public speaking. The reality is that public speaking is a different beast from writing a press release or crafting a pitch. The audience doesn’t expect perfection—they want authenticity. When you’re overly concerned with getting every word right, you lose the connection with your audience. They can sense when you’re reciting a script rather than speaking from the heart. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on delivering your message with confidence and clarity. Allow yourself the freedom to make mistakes—they make you more relatable and human.
2. You’re Used to Being Behind the Scenes
As a PR pro, you’re often the one guiding others from the shadows—writing speeches for executives, preparing talking points for clients, and advising on media interviews. This behind-the-scenes role means you’re not used to being the one in the spotlight. Stepping into the spotlight can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re more comfortable being the puppet master rather than the puppet. To overcome this, start small. Practise speaking in front of smaller, more familiar groups before taking on larger audiences. The more you put yourself in the spotlight, the more natural it will feel.
3. You Overthink Your Delivery
You’re a pro at crafting messages, so it’s no surprise that you might overthink every aspect of your delivery. Should you pause here? Is your tone engaging enough? Are your gestures too stiff or too exaggerated? This overthinking can lead to a stilted, unnatural performance. The key to successful public speaking is to be present in the moment. Instead of obsessing over how you’re coming across, focus on the content and the connection you’re building with your audience. Your delivery will naturally improve when you’re genuinely engaged with what you’re saying.
4. You’re Afraid of Vulnerability
Public speaking requires a level of vulnerability that can be uncomfortable for many PR pros. You’re used to controlling the narrative, but when you’re on stage, you’re exposing yourself to judgement, criticism, and scrutiny. The fear of vulnerability can manifest as a fear of public speaking. But remember, vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness. When you allow yourself to be vulnerable, you create a powerful connection with your audience. They’re not looking for a flawless performance—they’re looking for someone who’s real, relatable, and willing to share their true self.
5. You Don’t Practise Enough
It’s ironic that PR pros, who emphasise the importance of preparation to their clients, often neglect to practise public speaking themselves. You might assume that because you’re good at what you do, you’ll naturally excel at speaking. But like any other skill, public speaking requires practise. Set aside time to rehearse your speeches, record yourself, and watch the playback. Join a public speaking group or take a class to hone your skills. The more you practise, the more confident you’ll become.
The Takeaway
Public speaking is a challenge, even for those who make a living out of communication. But as a PR professional, you have the advantage of knowing how to craft compelling messages and connect with audiences. By embracing your imperfections, stepping out of the shadows, staying present, allowing yourself to be vulnerable, and practising regularly, you can conquer your fear of public speaking and become the dynamic speaker you were meant to be. Remember, your audience isn’t looking for a perfect performance—they’re looking for a connection. When you focus on building that connection, you’ll find that public speaking isn’t just something you can do—it’s something you can excel at.