Public Speaking Expert: these tips will make you more confident and build composure

Stop Letting Fear Muffle Your Voice

Let’s be honest. Most of us would rather jump out of a plane than stand in front of a room full of people to give a presentation. That stomach-turning anxiety? The sweaty palms? It’s real. But after catching this latest episode of Konnected Minds with Derrick Abaitey, I realized something vital: great speakers aren't born; they are built.

Derrick sat down with a public speaking expert who didn't just give us the usual "imagine the audience in their underwear" advice. Instead, we got a deep dive into what it actually takes to stay composed when all eyes are on you. If you’ve ever felt your heart racing before a job interview or a big pitch, this one is for you.

The Secret is in the Breath and the Body

One of the biggest takeaways for me was how much our physical posture dictates our mental confidence. We often think we need to feel confident to act confident, but the expert flipped that on its head. By fixing your stance and mastering your breathing, you literally signal to your brain that you are safe. It sounds simple, but how many of us actually remember to breathe deep into our diaphragm when we're nervous?

We also touched on the power of the pause. In Ghana, we tend to talk fast when we're excited or anxious. We use "um" and "uh" as fillers because we're scared of silence. But the episode taught me that silence is actually a tool. It gives the audience a second to digest what you said, and it makes you look like you’re in total control of the room. It’s a boss move, honestly.

Preparation Over Perfection

Another point that hit home was the difference between being prepared and being scripted. If you try to memorize every single word, you’re going to panic the moment you forget a sentence. The key to composure? Knowing your core message so well that you can talk about it naturally, like you're explaining it to a friend over Jollof.

Confidence comes from competence. The more you put yourself in positions to speak—even if it's just asking a question in a staff meeting—the more that "speaking muscle" grows. You don't need to be perfect; you just need to be present.

Watch the Full Breakdown

There is so much more in the video about handling Q&A sessions and how to use eye contact without making it awkward. Derrick really pulled out some gems in this conversation that I'm already trying to use in my daily life.

Whether you’re a student, an entrepreneur, or a corporate professional, your ability to communicate determines your ceiling. Don't let a lack of composure hold you back from the big opportunities. Watch the episode, take some notes, and let’s start speaking with some real authority.