Some of you may think that public speaking is a narrow category in and of itself. But there are many different types of public speaking that you should be familiar with.
Key Takeaways
- Persuasive speakers know how to change the opinion of a crowd
- Useful demonstrative speaking can help show your employees how to do something
- Busy debates can be a compelling type of persuasive speech
- Lighthearted humor and entertainment can really hit the spot
- Informative speakers give the audience knowledge they need
- Ceremonial speaking makes a moment unique and special
I’ve been a corporate emcee for a while and had my fair share of experience in this craft. I’ll tell you everything you should know about the six different types of PUBLIC speakers.
See Related: 8 Types Of Motivational Speakers You Should Consider
#1. Persuasive Speaking Is One Of The Most Powerful Practices
Though there are many different types of speaking, few are as powerful as persuasive speeches.
Behind all public speaking is a desire to communicate with a crowd which is why many public speakers have a knack for connecting with an audience. But each type of speaking requires different public speaking skills.
Often, professional speakers spend years honing their craft. At least, I did. It took plenty of dedication and commitment for me to become “the Tom Brady of emcees.”
But persuasive speakers need to focus on making their words particularly convincing and believable. They must craft their speeches with well-reasoned logical arguments to create a compelling point.
It can sometimes be hard to wholeheartedly convince an entire crowd of people. It’s a task not for the faint of heart. But persuasive speakers know how to do that and make it look easy.
For example, a persuasive speech might be used to convince your boss to give you a raise. Or, it could be used to convince a student body to vote for someone as Student Council President. There is no limit to what persuasive speech can be used for.
But certain qualities must be present for the act to be truly convincing. Not only does a speaker need plenty (probably more than enough) evidence to back their claims, but they also need:
- A confident tone of voice that allows them to take control of the room with only their words (and without coming across as arrogant)
- Friendly and open body language (i.e., no crossed arms or nervous swaying.)
- Appropriate facial expressions that help to solidify their point
#2. Useful Demonstrative Speaking Can Be Incredibly Insightful
Public speaking is a form of communication between the speaker and the audience. And the way a speaker communicates says a lot about their objective.
The goal of demonstrative speaking is to show listeners how to do something. In addition, this type of speaker shares relevant skills and knowledge with their audience members.
Demonstrative speech can be used in business, training events, or classroom settings. In addition, public speakers often have plenty of visual aids or even hands-on learning materials.
The content itself needs to be properly organized and easily understood. A speaker who overcomplicates a topic can leave their listeners feeling more confused than before the presentation.
Instead, the speech needs clear, concise, and simple explanations and plenty of audience interaction to answer any questions that might arise from listeners.
#3. Busy Debates Are Compelling As Persuasive Speech
Debates are organized arguments between opposing sides. Often, speakers will give a debate speech telling their side of it all.
During a debate, the speakers must adhere to certain rules and regulations for the event to be fair for all parties. There’s often an equal allotment of time for all sides to speak on behalf of their views, opinions, and arguments.
Persuasive speaking is very vital in a debate. These speakers are working to prove how their side is more favorable. And it’s up to them to convince an audience or panel to side with them.
If you have a debate coming up, it’s a great idea to work on fine-tuning your public speaking and communication skills. You’ll also need to do plenty of research beforehand, as you won’t be able to anticipate all the questions thrown at you in the moment, and you need to be prepared.
Bonus: How To Organize A Conference With An Event Emcee
#4. Lighthearted Entertainers Give The Audience What They Really Need
Have you ever seen a stand-up comedian before? That’s a type of entertaining speaking. Entertaining speakers use public speaking skills and stage presence to provide an audience with an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Often, entertaining speakers use jokes, personal stories, or other unique skills to “wow” their listeners. Yet, arguably, this is one of the most challenging types of public speaking as they need to know how to flawlessly execute pauses and emphasis.
If they mess up, the joke won’t land, and their audience will sit blank-faced.
I’ve seen some fantastic entertainers and corporate speakers during my years as a corporate emcee, and I’ve noticed that all of them have these core skills and qualities:
- Flawless delivery
- Passion and intrigue for what they’re talking about
- Appropriate content for their audience members
- Mindfulness and self-awareness
- Preparation
At first glance, you might think that being an entertaining speaker is only about having some genuinely funny jokes. And while that is a big part of it (no one likes hearing the same Dad jokes over and over), there’s so much more to it than that.
Entertainers must know how to use pauses and timing correctly to entice their audience. Without flawless delivery, their entire act will be a bust.
They also need to be okay with rejection. Sometimes, the audience won’t laugh at the jokes. And that’s okay. Whether it’s because the punchline was screwed up or it wasn’t the right content for the listeners, a great speaker knows how to shake off temporary failure and get right back at it.
The most excellent entertaining speakers make it look easy. That should be your goal!
#5. Informative Speakers Offer Knowledge To Their Listeners
Like demonstrative speaking, informative speaking provides the audience with knowledge and insight. However, this type of public speaking is more information-driven and has to do with the knowledge being shared.
Though data and statistics are often used to provide more evidence, informative speeches don’t often use visual aids.
The thing about an informative speech is that the speaker needs to be able to convince the audience that they are an authority on the topic. For the information to take root in the listener’s brain, they need to believe that what they’re hearing is, in fact, true and informative.
How To Create A Compelling Informative Speech
First things first. Informative speakers need to build credibility. Whether it’s industry experience or some sort of field research, establishing yourself as an expert in the subject matter is key.
While crafting an informative speech, you need to remember to keep it simple. Giving too much information at once can overload your listeners.
Ensure you keep the content light and interesting. Boring your audience will ensure that anything you try to teach them will be instantly forgotten. People are more likely to remember things if they find them appealing and intriguing!
Lastly, incorporate conversations into your speech. No one likes getting talked at. Don’t make them feel like you’re a high school lecturer, and it’s a Monday morning.
Instead, keep it engaging by conversing with your audience and taking questions. This will encourage a lively discussion and help new information be spread, shared, and retained.
#6. Ceremonial Speakers Can Make Your Special Day Amazing
Some speakers are reserved for special occasions. For example, ceremonial speakers typically give speeches during unique events. Anything from a graduation ceremony to an awards show can have a ceremonial keynote speaker.
Ceremonial speeches are unique because they are designed to fit the theme and format of the event itself. They aim to captivate the audience while adhering to the content of the event’s environment.
Ceremonial speeches are great ways to provide intrigue and insight at a formal or special event.
There are a few key aspects to keep in mind when giving a ceremonial speech.
For starters, there needs to be a personal touch. Without some backstory of the event or commemoration, it won’t be much of a ceremonial speech. This type of context helps the audience feel more connected to the event or occasion at hand.
Secondly, the speech needs to be occasion-oriented. The ceremonial speaker is there to honor the event and attendees, so anything in the speech that takes away from it shouldn’t be included.
Lastly, there needs to be brevity. The speaker isn’t the star of the show. The event itself is the main act. Being concise and straight to the point without going over a time limit is critical for a successful ceremonial speech.
A special occasions speaker knows how to honor the event while adding value.
Wrapping Up
There are plenty of different types of public speaking forms out there. But not all of them do the same things. Whether you’re an experienced speaking vet or you’re fresh in the industry, understanding the value that all speakers have is essential.
Don’t underestimate the power of an exceptional speaker!
Keep Reading: 10 Audience Participation Games For Your Next Corporate Event
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Adam Christing has been called “The Tom Brady of emcees.” He has hosted more than 1,000 company meetings, special events, gala celebrations, and more. He is the author of several books and founder of CleanComedians.com. For more event tips, follow Adam Christing on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and YouTube.
