Public speaking is not for the faint of heart. It requires a deep desire and unwavering determination to pursue your passion and become successful in this field. To be an effective public speaker, you must be comfortable in your own “zone” while demonstrating confidence and expertise on the topic at hand.

Successful public speakers aren’t born, they are made through a process of trial and error. They are often ridiculed, criticized, and verbally beaten down until they are shaped into polished and proficient speakers. However, in this article, we will take an innovative approach to public speaking training by focusing on the phrases that should be avoided, rather than the ones that should be said. It is often easier to remember what not to do, don’t you think?

1. “Oh, I apologize for that.”
If a participant asks you to go back to a previous slide because they didn’t understand it, it is important not to apologize. Instead, smile and say, “It’ll be my pleasure to discuss this with you.” As a guest speaker, you are valued and trusted by the organizer, and the attendees believe you are an expert on the topic. Apologizing unnecessarily makes you appear apologetic and insecure. Unless you have genuinely offended someone, there is no need to say sorry.

2. “My voice is soft today because I’m exhausted.”
It is important to remember that you are only human, and the audience knows this too. However, they have invested their time and money to listen to an expert who is at the top of their game. Therefore, you are expected to give your best performance, even if you are tired or not feeling well. Complaining about your exhaustion or any personal issues while discussing your topic creates a negative energy that may affect your audience’s experience.

3. “I’m not sure about that.”
If you are unsure about something, it is best not to mention it at all. Presenting ambiguous information will only spread confusion and cast doubt on your credibility. Before presenting a statement, make sure to confirm its validity. If someone asks a question about something you are unfamiliar with, instead of giving a half-hearted answer and admitting uncertainty, say, “That’s a great question that deserves a more comprehensive answer. Let’s exchange contact information, and I will get back to you after conducting extensive research.”

4. “Let’s not go back anymore.”
As a public speaker, your goal is to ensure that the audience understands the subject matter. If they express a desire to go back and review a previous point, it is your responsibility to explain it to them. Respect their time, but also acknowledge their willingness to learn and engage with the material.

5. “I’ll make this fast.”
Successful public speakers understand the importance of taking their time and allowing their audience to ask questions. They are genuinely interested in the learning and teaching process, viewing their presentations as leisurely walks in the park rather than rushed marathons. Learning is a patient process, and your focus should be on ensuring that your audience understands the information, rather than simply being heard.

6. “You weren’t listening, were you?”
Accusing your audience of not paying attention is disrespectful. Remember, you are a professional public speaker, not a babysitter. Treat your audience with the same respect that you expect from them.

7. “I’m a pile of nerves right now.”
While it is no secret that public speaking can make some people nervous, announcing your nervousness to the public only reaffirms that fact. Constantly mentioning your nerves may lead the audience to doubt your experience and credibility. Instead, express excitement and a genuine eagerness to be there. Say, “I’m so excited to be here. We’re all going to learn from each other,” and let your genuine smile boost your confidence.

In conclusion, successful public speakers are made through perseverance, practice, and a desire to continually improve. By avoiding these phrases and adopting a confident and competent mindset, you can become an exceptional public speaker. Remember, it’s not just about what you say, but also about how you say it and the presence you bring to the stage.