What are some tips for developing a signature speaking style that resonates with your audience?

In my journey as a bestselling author, leader and speaker, I've found that purpose is the bedrock of developing a signature speaking style that truly resonates with your audience. Before penning down a single word or stepping onto the stage, I delve deep into understanding the 'why' behind my speech. What message do I intend to impart? What transformation or realization do I wish to ignite in my audience? This clarity of purpose is not just about the content but also about the emotional and behavioral response I aim to evoke in my listeners. It guides me in selecting the appropriate tone, the most impactful words, and the most relatable stories.

Identify the purpose of your speech to deliver the most value to your audience. The signature style comes after you have done it 100 times.

Every speaker has their own style of speaking. It's very distinct and becomes a signature style. Delivery though important, shouldn't be the only factor that strikes the right chord with the audience. A speaker's wit, capability of engagement and content replete with day - to - day examples will resonate and be relatable. Easy flowing articulation with just the right emphasis on the focal point will rivet the audience and hold their attention. Be assertive where needed - there's no need to over emphasise at every juncture. The tone of your voice should stress the importance of particular words or phrases. Your signature style should encapsulate easy- flowing, articulate content interspersed with humour and relatable examples galore!

When you are beginning your public speaking journey, it's always best to start small with an audience in your own industry. That way you can relate to them, share 'in' jokes and make them feel that you understand them. Most importantly, it feels like a conversation rather than a lecture.

Your voice is the expression of your personality, values, and emotions through your speech. It is what makes you stand out from other speakers and what makes your audience remember you. To find your voice, you need to be authentic and honest with yourself and your listeners. Don't try to copy or imitate someone else's style or use words that don't sound natural to you. Instead, use your own words, experiences, and opinions to convey your message. Be confident and passionate about your topic, and show your enthusiasm and energy through your voice.

As an award-winning author of over a dozen books, I've consistently leveraged the power of storytelling to enhance my speaking engagements. Stories and examples are not just tools for illustration; they're the bridge that connects me to my audience, making complex ideas more accessible and memorable. In every speech, I carefully select stories that aren't only relevant to the topic but also resonate with the audience's experiences and aspirations. These narratives are imbued with vivid details, emotional depth, and often, a touch of humor, making them more engaging and impactful. By sharing these stories, I also reveal facets of my personality, values, and emotions, creating a deeper, more authentic connection with my audience.

Use real life examples, so you can remember them easily. E.g. if you are an IT-expert who creates apps you can say: "Last week my friend Howard told me he could not have dinner with me. Why not, I asked? "I have to get my work done. My computer is not listening to me. And then you say: "Hey I've got a solution to that which will save you time...." Use different stories to cement your speaking style.

Signature speaking style develops through consistent use of the way you induct your topic to your audience. Using a good background of known facts, and improving upon it through some new information and story would catch the attention of the audience. Include recent studies, articles in newspapers and day to day life experiences to catch hold the listeners. Speech should be complemented with appropriate body gestures to attract the audience focus.

It's about rehearsing your speech out loud, over and over. This practice isn't just about memorizing words; it's a process of fine-tuning every aspect of delivery – from voice modulation and pacing to volume and clarity. In my practice sessions, I focus on eliminating filler words and avoiding jargon that might alienate my audience. Instead, I strive for clarity, naturalness, and expressiveness. Through persistent practice, I aim not just to deliver my speech but to embody it, ensuring that when I speak, it's with the ease, confidence, and mastery that comes from thorough preparation.

Carve a niche for yourself. Every person has a distinct forte for a particular aspect. While speaking, hone in on your strong points. It may be your powerful voice, assertiveness or even the knack to be humorous. Diction and vocabulary are other facets that will enhance your speech. Don't use difficult words as the audience may fail to understand the content. Don't use too simple a language either. Try to balance your vocabulary so that it sounds easy to understand but not sub - standard. Definitely use a few expressions and phrases to highlight your points. Besides examples, expressions work wonders in riveting the audience's attention. Hence consolidate your position with a unique niche that establishes your signature brand!!

If you want to identify your signature speaking style, ask a good speaker (and listener) or two to imitate you in 2 minutes. You will get a good insight (and probably laughs as well).

The practice of Prayer , preparation and patience will be a great aid in your preaching. If you do this, you will gain confidence as you gain experience in your preaching.

If you are nervous, you may find yourself speaking quickly. You can get around this "problem" and worry less about by walking slowly across the stage, and stopping now and again to have eye contact with the audience. Here's why ... it's impossible to speak quickly while you are walking slowly.