Speak Like a Leader: Public Speaking Tips That Actually Work

Let’s face it—public speaking can be scarier than being bucked off a horse or wrenching on your rig with parts flying. Most folks dread getting up in front of a crowd, but if you’re a leader of volunteers, a trail advocate, or the one folks look to for direction—you will have to give a speech. Club meetings, public hearings, land-use conventions—it’s all part of the game.

So how do you tackle public speaking without losing your nerve or your voice? Here’s what’s worked for me over thousands of speeches (yes, thousands), and it’ll work for you too.

1. It’s OK to Be Nervous

First off, you’re not alone. Nearly everyone gets nervous before speaking. Motorheads especially hate the idea of “losing face” in front of their peers. But nerves don’t have to stop you. Accept the fear, then get over it by being prepared. That’s the ticket.

2. Practice Like You Mean It

The secret to confidence? Preparation. Stand in front of a mirror, record yourself on your webcam, or grab a couple buddies to be your audience. Practice until you’re comfortable with your message and how you deliver it.

Know your topic. Do your homework. Gather your facts and get your thoughts straight before you try to write your speech. When you know what you’re talking about, the nerves shrink.

3. Use Note Cards, Not a Script

Don’t try to memorize every word or, worse, read your speech word-for-word. That’s a surefire way to bore your audience. Instead, use note cards—3×5 or 5×7 works great. Write down an outline with key points and practice speaking naturally from those prompts. Glance confidently at your notes, then look your audience in the eye.

Remember: It’s not a college essay. It’s a connection.

4. Follow the Rule of Three

Here’s the best speech formula I know (and I’ve used it since my days as a college commencement speaker):

Tell them what you’re going to tell them. Tell them. Then tell them what you told them.

That’s it. Three parts. Start with a strong intro (maybe a quick story or connection to your audience). Then deliver your main points. Finally, wrap it up by summarizing your key messages—clearly and confidently.

Example: A Speech About Giving a Speech

Let’s say I’m giving a talk on public speaking. I’d say:

“Good morning, I’m Del Albright with Cal4Wheel, and today I want to help you get better at public speaking. I’ll give you four tips: 1) Accept the nerves, 2) Be prepared, 3) Use an outline, and 4) Follow the rule of three.”

Boom—introduction done. Then I’d go through each tip, giving examples. Finally, I’d end with a summary:

“If you remember one thing today, let it be this: Public speaking doesn’t have to be scary. Prepare well, use your notes, and always tell them what you’re going to tell them, tell them, and then tell them what you told them.”

Be Sincere. Be You.

In your introduction, find a sincere way to connect. If you’re speaking to veterans, talk about your service or family military history. If you’re with a trail crew, tell a quick story about your latest ride. But be real. Don’t fake it.

Humor works if it’s your style, but authenticity always wins the day.

Leave a Strong Last Impression

My granddad told me two things I’ll never forget:

1. You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

2. The last thing you say is the first thing they’ll remember.

So close strong. Summarize your message, thank your audience, and leave them with a lasting thought. Whether it’s a room of 20 or 2,000, they’ll remember how you made them feel and what you stood for.

Want to Get Even Better? Join Toastmasters

If you’re serious about stepping up your game, join a local Toastmasters club. It’s the best, fastest way to improve your speaking chops and lead with confidence. No better training ground.

Bonus: Talking to the Press Like a Pro

Now, let’s talk media interviews—because microphones have a way of showing up when you least expect them.

Here are my top tips for handling the press:

• Have your bullet points ready. Know your key messages and stick to them.

• Answer the question—then stop talking. Seriously. Don’t fill dead air or ramble. The reporter can fill space; your job is to stay on message.

• Practice mock interviews. Have a friend pepper you with rapid-fire questions. Practice sticking to your script.

• Use notes if needed. TV anchors use Teleprompters—so can you. Keep your message nearby and use it with confidence.

For example:

Reporter: “Why were you sipping coffee during your speech?”
You: “Public speaking’s all about connecting with the audience—and sometimes a little coffee helps!” (Smile. Stop talking.)

Final Thought

Public speaking is a learned skill—not a born talent. The more you do it, the easier it gets. And as a leader in the outdoor world, your voice matters—on the mic, at the podium, and in the field.

Practice the basics. Speak from the heart. Stick to your message. And remember: you’ve got something important to say.