UNLEASHING YOUR AUTHENTIC VOICE: THE KEY TO GENUINE PUBLIC SPEAKING By Adeleye, Oladimeji Habeeb

In the world of public speaking, where words sway between eloquence and impact, a transformative power emerges, transcending the boundaries of rehearsed and scripted speeches. Imagine a speaker who doesn’t merely utter words but, in an authentic symphony, crafts a narrative that resonates with the audience’s very core. This is the essence of genuine public speaking, a journey that begins with the unlocking of one’s authentic voice.

A few years ago, there lived a young woman named Titi. Titi harboured a deep passion for public speaking, envisioning herself captivating audiences with her words. However, her journey from a novice speaker to a compelling orator held a crucial lesson, the power of authenticity in practice. Titi’s aspiration led her to join a local public speaking club. She eagerly attended every meeting, absorbing tips and techniques from seasoned speakers. 

However, during her initial practice sessions, something felt amiss. The words seemed rehearsed, lacking the genuine resonance she sought to convey.

A SPOTLIGHT ON AUTHENTICITY

As the curtain rises on the stage of public speaking, it’s imperative to distinguish between the ordinary act of speaking and the artistry of public speaking. Speaking is a transaction of information, a routine engagement of vocal cords. In contrast, public speaking is an immersive experience, an intimate connection between speaker and audience where every word is not just heard but felt.

Why, then, do individuals dedicate countless hours to perfecting their public speaking skills? The answer lies in the quest for connection. Public speaking is an endeavour to bridge the gap between the speaker and the audience. It’s an exploration of the art of communication where words cease to be mere carriers of information and become vessels of shared understanding.

The heightened emphasis on practice in public speaking stems from the recognition that speaking in front of an audience brings a unique set of challenges and demands. These challenges lead people to put in extra effort to be better. Here are some reasons people invest time and effort in practice:

Nervousness and Stage Anxiety:

Public speaking often triggers nervousness and stage anxiety. Practising allows speakers to familiarise themselves with the material, reducing anxiety and boosting confidence. 

Memorization and Flow:

Practice aids in memorizing key points, ensuring a smoother and more confident delivery. It helps speakers internalise the structure of their speech, making it easier to navigate through various sections without stumbling.

Time Management:

Effective public speaking involves delivering a message within a specified time frame. Practice helps speakers manage their time efficiently.

Adaptation to Unexpected Situations:

No matter how well-prepared a speaker is, unexpected situations can arise during a presentation. Regular practice helps speakers adapt to unforeseen circumstances, such as technical issues or interruptions, ensuring they can maintain composure and continue effectively.

In essence, It empowers speakers to face the challenges of the stage with confidence, ensuring a polished and impactful performance.

Remember Titi? In Titi's quest for improvement, she stumbled upon the story of a renowned speaker known for leaving audiences spellbound. This speaker, unlike others, practised with authenticity as the cornerstone of every endeavour. Inspired, Titi decided to infuse her practice sessions with her true self.

As Titi practised her speeches, she embraced her unique voice, quirks, and perspectives. She no longer aimed to emulate the style of others but rather focused on being the authentic version of herself. The transformation was remarkable.

KEYS TO BE AUTHENTIC AS A PUBLIC SPEAKER

 1. Find Your Unique Perspective:

Authenticity extends beyond personal stories. It involves presenting your unique perspective on a topic. Share your insights, viewpoints, and reflections, even if they aren't personal stories.

2. Express Genuine Emotion:

Authenticity is also conveyed through genuine emotions. Whether you're passionate, concerned, or optimistic about your topic, let your true feelings be reflected in your tone, expressions, and gestures.

3. Connect with Shared Experiences:

While personal stories can enhance authenticity, you can also connect with the audience through shared experiences. Find common ground that resonates with your listeners, fostering a sense of unity.

4. Be Transparent and Honest:

Authenticity thrives on transparency and honesty. If you're unsure about certain aspects or are exploring a topic, express that uncertainty. Audiences appreciate genuine communication.

WHY AUTHENTICITY MATTERS

1. Connectivity Beyond Words:

 Picture Titi practising in front of the mirror. As she spoke authentically, her words resonated, creating an unspoken connection that transcended mere rhetoric.

2. Consistent Messaging:

Titi’s practice sessions mirrored her actual deliveries. The consistency in her messaging, tone, and style ensured that her authentic self shone through consistently.

3. Trust and Credibility: 

Imagine Titi on the stage, earning the trust of her audience. Authenticity became the cornerstone of trust, enhancing her credibility as a speaker.

4. Engaging Hearts and Minds:

Envision faces in the crowd lighting up as Titi spoke from the heart. Authenticity captivated hearts and minds, making her practice sessions more engaging.

5. Creating Unforgettable Experiences:

Recall the moments when Titi’s authenticity made speeches unforgettable. Each practice session became an experience etched in the minds of those who listened.

6. Inviting Emotional Connection:

Picture Titi’s audience moved by the emotions in her delivery. Authenticity fostered an emotional connection, turning her speeches into shared experiences.

7. Standing Out as an Original:

Reflect on Titi's journey to stand out. Authenticity became her unique identifier, setting her apart in a crowded field of speakers.

In the end, Titi's commitment to authentic practice not only transformed her into a captivating speaker but also left an indelible mark on her audience. 

Unleashing your authentic voice is not just a personal journey; it’s a gift to your audience. Authenticity transforms public speaking from a monologue to a meaningful dialogue, building trust through genuine communication.  With this, you’ll discover the true power of authenticity in public speaking.

Editor-in-Chief: Ifedayo, Similoluwa Sharon.