What does PUBLIC SPEAKING mean?

Public speaking is the art of effective and convincing communication. It is much more than just giving speeches – it is an essential part of our everyday lives, whether in conversations, presentations or negotiations. But what exactly is public speaking? What techniques and tools are there for speaking more convincingly?

In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about public speaking. I will also show you how you can improve your public speaking skills with targeted public speaking coaching. My book “The 24-Hour Speaker!” also provides you with valuable guidance on how to apply public speaking in practice.

What is public speaking?

Definition

Public Speaking refers to the art of speaking and the ability to effectively convey content. It includes linguistic, vocal and body language tools to convince or inspire listeners. It is not just about formal speeches, but also about everyday communication. Everyone uses public speaking – consciously or unconsciously.

Significance in communication

Public Speaking is crucial for successful communication. It helps you to formulate thoughts clearly, present arguments understandably, and reach your audience emotionally. Whether in professional or private conversations – good public speaking skills can open doors. In my book, I show you how to systematically improve your rhetorical skills.

The History of Public Speaking

Antiquity

The roots of public speaking go back to ancient times. Philosophers such as Aristotle, Socrates and Cicero laid the foundations. Aristotle developed the famous “triangle of rhetoric” – ethos, pathos, logos – which is still considered the basis of the art of persuasion today. Even then, it was recognized that public speaking is a learnable skill.

The Middle Ages and the Renaissance

In the Middle Ages, rhetoric was used primarily in the church, while it experienced a rebirth during the Renaissance. Humanists such as Erasmus of Rotterdam emphasized its importance for education and society. During this time, rhetoric was also increasingly systematized.

Modern Public Speaking

Today, public speaking is used in almost all areas of life – in politics, the media, advertising and in everyday life. Digitalization has created new public speaking challenges, especially in written and audiovisual formats. Modern public speaking therefore includes not only spoken speeches, but also written texts, podcasts and videos.

The three pillars of classical public speaking

1. Ethos (credibility) – Your audience trusts you when you appear authentic and competent. I show you how to build this trust in my book and in my coaching sessions.
2. Pathos (emotion) – A good speech appeals to the emotions of the audience. Without emotion, a speech remains dull and boring.
3. Logos (logic and reasoning) – A clear, structured line of reasoning is a rational way to persuade. Logos is essential in debates and business conversations.

Why is Public Speaking so important?

Good public speaking skills can make the difference between success and failure – whether it’s a presentation, a job interview, a sales pitch or a political speech. Those who can express themselves clearly and persuasively gain influence and trust. Public Speaking is a key skill that is beneficial in every aspect of life.

The application of public speaking in different areas

Politics

Politicians use public speaking to influence opinions and win over voters. Their speeches are often peppered with rhetorical devices such as metaphors and repetition. If you want to be convincing here, you need to have a clear message and adapt to your audience.

Advertising and Marketing

Advertising copy and marketing campaigns deliberately use rhetorical devices to present products and services in an appealing way. Emotions play a particularly important role here.

Keynotes & Conferences

Being able to convince on a big stage is a special challenge. When it comes to keynotes and conferences, it’s not just the content that matters, but also the way it is presented. Strong Public Speaking ensures that your message remains in the minds of your audience.

Leadership & Management

Managers not only have to make decisions, they also have to communicate them convincingly. Public Speaking helps motivate employees, build trust and give clear instructions.

Sales & Negotiations

In a sales pitch, it’s not just the product that counts, but also how you present it. With the help of rhetoric techniques, you can convince customers and achieve better negotiation results.

Education & Teaching

Teachers, lecturers and trainers need to convey content in a way that is both understandable and exciting. Clear and convincing public speaking skills ensure that the audience remains attentive and better understands the content.

Public Speaking in Everyday Life

Everyone uses public speaking skills – whether in negotiations, job interviews or in personal exchanges. Used consciously, they help you achieve your goals. In my coaching, you will learn how to appear more confident in everyday conversations and how to convince people.

Rhetorical Tools and Techniques

• Metaphors & comparisons – Illustrate complex topics.
• Repetitions – Reinforce statements.
• Rhetorical questions – encourage listeners to think.
• Storytelling – makes content more tangible and emotional.

What is the difference between public speaking and giving a presentation?

A presentation often includes visual support such as PowerPoint, Prezi, Keynote or other presentation software tools. Public speaking, on the other hand, focuses purely on linguistic and non-verbal impact. But public speaking also plays a crucial role in presentations.

What is the difference between public speaking and giving a presentation?

Public speaking and presentation techniques are closely related, but they have different focuses. A presentation often includes visual aids such as PowerPoint. Public speaking, on the other hand, focuses purely on linguistic and non-verbal effects. But public speaking also plays a crucial role in presentations.

How do they work together?

A successful presentation requires both convincing language and effective visual support. Public Speaking ensures that your arguments are conveyed clearly, in a structured way and persuasively. Presentation skills complement this with the correct use of media, body language and room design. Together, these two skills make a presentation lively and memorable.

The differences

• Public Speaking focuses on the spoken word, the structure of the argument, the speaker’s linguistic expression and powers of persuasion. This includes language style, voice, pauses, emphasis and the art of reaching an audience emotionally.
• Presentation skills refer to the visual and technical support, i.e. the use of slides, gestures, facial expressions, room layout and media. A good presentation uses visual aids to convey content vividly, but the power of persuasion still depends heavily on public speaking skills.

When is public speaking more important and when are presentation skills more important?

• In a speech without visual support (e.g. a political speech or a keynote), public speaking is the main tool for inspiring an audience.
• In a lecture or a corporate presentation, both elements must be combined well: strong arguments and compelling language together with supporting visual elements.
• For technical presentations or training courses, a clear presentation technique helps to present complex content in an understandable way, but without rhetorical clarity, even a perfect PowerPoint slide loses its effect.

How can you improve both skills?

• Practice public speaking: Work on your voice, language, structure and persuasiveness (e.g. with my book “The 24-Hour Speaker” or public speaking coaching from MCPREZI).
• Optimize your presentation technique: Learn how to design slides efficiently, maintain eye contact, use the space and make targeted use of your body language.

A successful presentation is the perfect combination of strong language and effective visual support. If you can do both, you can win over your audience every time!

Public Speaking Coaching & Training

What are the benefits of public speaking coaching?

Professional public speaking coaching helps you to improve your communication skills in a targeted way. You will learn to speak more clearly and persuasively, to consciously use your body language, and to get a grip on your nervousness. Through individual feedback, you will recognize your strengths and weaknesses and be able to work on them in a targeted manner. Coaching is particularly helpful if you want to appear more confident in professional or private contexts.

How does public speaking coaching work?

Public Speaking Coaching usually begins with an analysis of your current communication style. Then we work specifically on certain areas, such as speech flow, body language or argumentation skills. Practical exercises, video analysis and individual feedback are among the central methods. Our coaching at MCPREZI is based on my proven House of Speaking Method, which has already proven itself in practice many times.

Who can benefit from public speaking coaching?

Public speaking coaching is suitable for anyone who wants to improve their communication skills. Whether you’re a manager, salesperson, politician, lecturer or just someone who wants to feel more confident in conversations, anyone can benefit from targeted training. It’s also a valuable resource for students preparing for presentations or oral exams.

How long does public speaking coaching take?

The duration depends on your individual goals. Some people benefit from one or more sessions or an intensive one-day seminar, while others train continuously over several weeks or months. At MCPREZI, we offer both individual sessions and intensive training lasting several days. You can find an overview of our coaching offerings in our MCPREZI.ACADEMY.

How much does public speaking coaching cost?

The cost of coaching varies depending on the scope, duration, and format (individual or group training). Investing in your public speaking skills pays off in the long run, as it makes you more convincing in both your professional and personal life. You can find specific prices for our coaching at MCPREZI.ACADEMY.

Can I learn public speaking on my own?

Yes, there are many ways to learn public speaking on your own, through guides, books, online courses, or videos. My book, “The 24-Hour Speaker”, offers a comprehensive introduction with numerous practical exercises. However, coaching has the advantage of providing you with personalized feedback and allowing you to work specifically on your individual challenges.

What is the difference between public speaking training and coaching?

A public speaking training usually takes place in groups and teaches general techniques and strategies. A coaching on the other hand is individually tailored to you, so that your specific weaknesses and goals are worked on in a targeted manner. I offer both: group workshops and personal coaching.

Tips for improving your public speaking skills

Finally, I would like to mention some frequently asked questions (FAQ) from my practice that come up again and again.

The following questions and answers will give you a first insight into how you can improve your communication and public speaking skills. They offer quick and concise solutions to common challenges when speaking and arguing. However, these answers are deliberately kept short. You can find a detailed explanation with many practical examples and exercises in my book “The 24-Hour Speaker”. There you will find more in-depth instructions to develop your skills in a targeted way and take them to the next level.

How can I speak more persuasively?

Persuasive speaking is based on a combination of self-confidence, a clear structure and an emotional appeal. A clear argument, a calm voice and targeted pauses help to get your message across more effectively. Use gestures consciously and maintain eye contact with your audience to build trust.

How can I improve my diction?

To speak more precisely and effectively, it helps to expand your vocabulary. Read regularly, listen carefully and repeat difficult phrases out loud. Consciously replacing filler words with short pauses also helps you to express yourself more clearly.

How do I get my audience’s attention?

An interesting introduction, for example with a thought-provoking question, a surprising statement or a short story, captivates listeners from the outset. I devote a whole chapter to this topic in my book because attention is of central importance in your speeches and presentations. In addition, a varied voice – emphasizing important words and varying your speaking tempo – helps to avoid monotony.

How can I use my voice effectively?

Your voice is one of your most powerful tools. Conscious breathing and deliberate emphasis create a pleasant sound. Speak at a medium volume, vary your pitch and speed, and use pauses deliberately to make statements more effective.

How do I avoid “ums” and other filler words?

These often arise from insecurity or pauses for thought. Practice speaking consciously by taking more time when you talk. Pauses are perfectly acceptable and come across as more professional than unconsciously interspersed filler words. Good preparation also reduces the likelihood of faltering.

How can I get my stage fright under control?

Stage fright is a natural reaction that can be controlled by using specific techniques. Breathing exercises, mental training and repeated practice help to reduce your nervousness. In my coaching, I will show you proven methods for speaking confidently and relaxed in front of an audience.

How can I reduce my nervousness when speaking?

Nervousness is completely normal, but it can be controlled. Breathing exercises, good preparation and a conscious pace help to reduce excitement. Instead of suppressing insecurity, use it as energy to convey your message with passion.

How can I appear more confident?

Self-confidence comes from practice and conscious body language. Standing upright, breathing calmly and making deliberate gestures convey sovereignty. Your inner attitude also plays a role – believe in what you are saying, then others will take you seriously too.

How can I improve my body language?

Your body language influences how your words are perceived. Standing upright, making natural gestures and maintaining direct eye contact inspire confidence. Avoid hectic movements or crossing your arms, as these signal insecurity or defensiveness.

What should I do if I run out of words during a speech?

If you get stuck, take a quick breath and think before you speak. Notes or key points can help you keep the thread. If you take a short break, your audience is usually less aware of it than you are.

How do I construct my arguments logically?

A good speech follows a clear structure. The classic rule of three helps: start with a thesis, support it with two or three coherent arguments and end with a strong final statement. A comprehensible sequence increases the power of persuasion.

How do I prepare for a speech or presentation?

Thorough preparation is the key to success. Define the goal of your speech, think about a clear structure and practice aloud several times. If possible, record yourself or practice in front of a trusted person. Make sure to practice not only the content but also your appearance.

What are the most common speaking mistakes and how can I avoid them?

Common mistakes include speaking in a monotone, speaking too fast and not making eye contact. Consciously using your voice, pace and body language can help you avoid these issues. An unclear structure or excessive use of filler words can also weaken a speech, which is why it’s worth consciously practising these points.

Why is it important to remain authentic?

People quickly notice when someone seems artificial. Authenticity builds trust and makes you more approachable. Speak as you feel comfortable, rather than desperately playing a role. Your audience will then perceive you as credible.

How can I guide conversations and discussions in a targeted way?

In conversations, it helps to actively listen and ask targeted questions. Repeat or paraphrase important statements to show that you are paying attention. If you want to influence the direction of a conversation, strategically introduce your own points and use positive wording.

What can I do when I am criticized?

Criticism should not be taken personally. Remain calm, listen carefully and ask if anything is unclear. Show understanding for the other perspective and respond objectively instead of defending yourself directly. A confident response to criticism can even strengthen your position.

ATTENTION – ATTENTION:
The above answers only solve small parts of your challenge!
What you really need to improve in a targeted way is a METHOD that covers all areas of your speeches and presentations holistically!

 

The HOUSE OF SPEAKING METHOD by Michael Sinnhuber does exactly that!

In the book “The 24-Hour SPEAKER – How to Give Better, More Convincing and More Profitable Speeches & Presentations with the Holistic HOUSE OF SPEAKING METHOD”, I describe step by step how to become a great speaker in 4 major areas.

Based on your current situation, you will find answers to your questions in all 4 relevant areas of a good speech & presentation. And I do it systematically, instead of out of context, as it often happens.

For questions about the book, our coaching or other offers in presentation design, training and workshops, please contact us directly by phone or email. You are also welcome to book an appointment for a free and non-binding initial and strategy meeting directly in my calendar.

Conclusion

Public speaking is an essential skill that can help you both privately and professionally. Whether you want to strengthen your powers of persuasion, reduce your stage fright or improve your ability to argue, with the right method you can take your speaking skills to the next level.

Do you want to improve your public speaking skills in a targeted way? Then find out more about our public speaking coaching at MCPREZI or get valuable tips from my book “The 24-Hour Speaker”