BECOMING a Charismatic Speaker: How Presence and Preparation Transform Your Presentation Skills

Many professionals believe that being a charismatic speaker is something you are simply born with. Some people seem to have that natural magnetism: audiences listen effortlessly, feel connected and want to engage. But is charisma really reserved for the happy few? Based on more than ten years of experience in presentation skills training for professionals, I have learned that charisma is not about personality, looks or seniority — it is about presence. In this article, I explain how presence, preparation and mindset help you become a more charismatic and impactful speaker.

I think we can all attain it.

How so?

I have noticed over a period of more than 10 years training, that the participants that had this magic, where not especially attractive, experienced (seniors), had good reputations or were extraverts.

But what they did have in common, was that they managed to be 100% present when they spoke.

And real presence makes your speaking instantaneously powerful and creates a strong connection to your audience. All in an almost effortless manner. Hello charisma! Hello magnetism.

This is super attractive for an audience.

You will nail it with your audience when you can attain that. Come across as strong and open/benevolent at the same time.

And you do not have to be as handsome as Beyonce, have to have a reputation like the Dalai Lama or have to have the life wisdom of Michelle Obama.

What you do need is:

Knowing how to prepare your presentation, so you can be really present when you present.“Presenting is preparing and letting go”.
Learn golden knowledge on presenting. How can you easily keep your audience on board and tuned in? What does your audience need from you? What does your body language portray? What is your presence like?
Learn to have the proper mindset. A mindset that keeps you in the present when you speak, instead of pulling you out of it.

Would you like to develop your presentation skills and become a more charismatic speaker, while staying true to yourself? Learn more about my Presentation Skills Training for Expats and Dutch Professionals here

To more grip, impact and presenting pleasure!