HOW TO EFFECTIVELY LISTEN AS A PUBLIC SPEAKER By Mafe Olatunji

A wise old bird sat on an oak. 

The more he saw, the less he spoke. 

The less he spoke, the more he heard. 

Why can’t we all be like that wise old bird?

- Edwards Hersey Richards

I have always been fascinated by this nursery rhyme as a young boy, about this wise old bird that gets wiser as she listens. It is said that we have two ears and one mouth so we can speak less and hear more. As a public speaker, one may struggle with this, as the natural tendency is to speak. However, any communication is incomplete without feedback and feedback can only be received by listening.  Hence, the purpose of this article is to show how well one should listen to his/her audience – both in spoken and unspoken manners.

According to data from Oxford Languages, the term ‘listen’ means to give one’s attention to sound or something. It originates from the Old English word of Germanic origin ‘hlysnan’ which means ‘pay attention to’. As a public speaker, it is pertinent to pay attention to your audience when you address them. Through this, you can properly connect with them and effectively share your thoughts and ideas with them

In the process of effective listening, the first step is to listen to know your audience. You are not your audience but you can get to know your audience. It is possible to make assumptions about your audience during the preparation of your speech however in the process of speaking, paying attention to your audience can give a better perspective into the mind of your audience. Some of the things you want to pay attention to are as follows:

- The choice of words/ use of the language of your audience while you interact with them.

- Mood or emotions (facial expressions) at different intervals of the speech show their readiness.

- Energy level and response rate during a speech to show their interest in the topic or theme of the speech.

- Recurring statements that show their focus or pain.

- Their questions which show their needs or areas of concern.

Paying attention to these things can help you get into the minds of your audience and see their perspectives so you can better understand them and channel your ideas or speech to suit their need. This is called ‘empathic listening’ by Stephen Covey. It is the highest form of listening; which is listening to understand your audience. As a doctor would not prescribe before diagnosing, a public speaker should observe and listen before speaking. To be an effective public speaker, you must be a great listener. 

A good example was a speaking engagement by the renowned public speaker and influential leader, John Maxwell, who was invited to speak in the Philippines. He had his speech well-prepared for the event. However, upon arrival, he added an interaction with a participant at the event that changed his perspective. Listening closely to the participant, he was able to figure out the real needs of his audience. Through that, he tailored his speech to the new insights received from his interaction. The speech was an impactful one that led to a significant transformation for his audience. To have that kind of feat is possible if you are ready to listen and understand your audience.

It takes extra effort to listen as a public speaker however it gives extra dividends because, like the wise old bird in the introduction, you become wiser on how to communicate to your audience with a lasting and impactful experience. The skill of listening is very crucial to have as an excellent communicator and even in one’s personal life. A great public speaker is a great listener. Alas! We can all be like that old wise bird.