8 Smart Steps to Set Yourself Up for Speaking Success

Even the most seasoned presenters know: preparation off stage sets you up for success on stage. Here are eight practical and frequently overlooked steps that will help you feel confident, in control, and ready to make your message memorable.

  1. Check in early.

Arrive with plenty of time to get familiar with the space. Notice the setup:

  • Is there a platform or stage?
  • Where will you stand when you’re introduced?
  • How many steps will you take to reach the lectern or center stage?

Pay attention to lighting and sound. Is the spotlight on you—not the banner, lectern, or ceiling? Remember, when the lights go down and the volume goes up, audiences often think they can’t hear clearly.

  1. Make friends with the stage.

When the room is empty, walk the stage. Plan where you’ll stand, when you’ll move, and how you’ll use the space. Actors call this “blocking.” Unnecessary movement distracts from your message; be intentional in your rehearsal. Run through your outline and visualize an enthusiastic audience response. The more comfortable you feel on stage ahead of time, the more relaxed and connected you’ll be when it’s showtime.

  1. Bring your own timing device. 

Staying on time shows respect for your audience. Unless this is a large production with a production company, do not assume you will have a timer. For your own peace of mind, bring an easy-to-read clock or timer, and make sure one is visible. Most speakers misjudge how long they’ve been talking. If you’re including Q&A, plan for a dramatic close and stick to a “must-end-by” time. Professionalism is often measured in minutes.

  1. Know your microphone.

The microphone is your partner, not your enemy. Decide whether you prefer a handheld, lavaliere, or lectern mic. For handheld, keep it at chin level. If it is an over-the-ear, make sure it is taped to your face. Always test it in advance—have someone walk around the room to confirm you’re clear everywhere. Please arrive on time for your sound check, be gracious with the technicians, and thank them. They are your behind-the-scenes allies.

  1. Double-check your visuals.

If you’re using visual aids or video, confirm everything works before the audience arrives.

  • Are your slides in the correct sequence?
  • Do you have a remote so you can move freely?
  • Can your visuals be read clearly from the back row?

Remember, visual aids are meant to support your message, not steal the spotlight. Sometimes the most powerful slide is a blank screen so all eyes are back on you.

  1. Coordinate with the organizer or emcee.

Clarity avoids awkward moments. Know who is introducing you, where you’ll enter from, and whether you’ll shake hands or not. If you’re speaking at a banquet, double-check that you have a clear path to the stage without navigating wires, chairs, or dinner plates. A smooth start builds credibility before you even speak.

  1. Provide your own introduction.

Never leave your introduction to chance. Send a pre-written version in advance, and bring extras with you. Write it in 18-point bullets for easy reading. Confirm your introducer knows how to pronounce your name and is comfortable with the wording. A well-crafted introduction sets the tone and positions you precisely as you want to be perceived.

  1. Be your own warm-up act.

Before you speak, mingle. Shake hands, ask questions, make connections. When people feel you’ve noticed them, they’ll give you their attention in return. That goodwill only lasts a few minutes, so reward them with a strong, memorable opening.

Remember

Any presentation—whether to a small group or a packed auditorium—can feel intimidating. The secret is preparation. When you arrive early, check the details, and build confidence in advance, you free yourself to focus on the most essential part of speaking: connecting with your audience and delivering lasting impact.

“Our investment in Patricia’s presentation coaching quickly became one of the smartest decisions we’ve made for our technical experts. What started as support for high-stakes events turned into an essential part of our preparation process. Patricia isn’t just an outside coach—she’s truly part of our team. Her ability to help our executives and engineers communicate with clarity and confidence has elevated not only our public presentations and Executive Briefing Center sessions but also internal meetings and customer conversations. The best part? The rave reviews keep coming.” Greg Smith, Vice President, Product Marketing at Nutanix

As a bonus: How to Warm Up Before You Hit the Stage

 

Fripp Virtual Training

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The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

Recently, I had the joy of seeing the magnificent show A Beautiful Noise at The Smith Center in Las Vegas.

This is, of course, the life story of Neil Diamond. Having seen him perform live before, I knew to expect magic, and I wasn’t disappointed.

Part of the show’s brilliance is in its structure. It opens with Neil as he is now, in conversation with his therapist, looking back on his life through the lens of his songs. We are drawn into his world, from humble beginnings and self-doubt to becoming a worldwide megastar with more popularity than Elvis. Along the way, we see the highs and lows, the struggles, the joy, and the unwavering devotion to the music that gave meaning to his life and happiness to his audiences.

By the final curtain, the audience is on its feet, carried away on a wave of music and emotion.

And here’s the connection that struck me: the show’s structure is precisely the type of framework I help my clients use to craft their speeches when they share their own life experiences.

The Power of Structure: Theater Meets Speaking

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Do You Want to Build Emotional Connection with Your Audience? This is How

Eye Contact: The Silent Superpower in Presentations

Suppose you want to connect with your audience on an emotional level. In that case, whether it’s one decision-maker, a boardroom full of executives, or a conference ballroom of hundreds, your eyes are one of your most powerful tools. In Deliver Unforgettable Presentations, we emphasize that eye contact is not just about looking—it’s about connecting. Here’s how to maximize its impact.

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Avoid These Costly Sales Presentation Mistakes

Here are 12 Proven Fripp Suggestions

Sales professionals carry a unique responsibility. Every time they speak, they represent themselves, their team, and their entire organization. Whether they succeed or fail can come down to one factor—how well they present their message.

Even the most experienced sales professionals can benefit from expert coaching. Why? Because clear messaging, emotional connection, and persuasive structure are not optional—they are essential. These are the top 12 mistakes I see in the first coaching sessions with my clients. By the time we’re done, they know how to avoid them and win more business.

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Do You Agree Many Political Speech Openings Miss Opportunities?

You know how often I speak and write about the critical importance of a strong speech opening.

The first words your audience hears don’t just begin your message; they set the tone, command attention, and signal your confidence. In short, the opening arouses interest in the subject and the speaker.

This is true whether you’re addressing a conference, leading a sales meeting, or standing on the world stage in a political arena.

Open your presentation with impact

The Political Trap: Protocol Over Power

Yes, political speeches come with their own rules and expectations. I understand that protocol often requires recognizing dignitaries, thanking the host, and following formalities. After all, the political stage is also a diplomatic one.

However, I believe this: You can honor protocol and still open with power.

Some of the most memorable lines in political speeches; those that move minds, shape history, or inspire action, are too often buried halfway through the script. By the time the speaker gets to them, attention has already wandered.

Let’s not waste the audience’s freshest attention span on “Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.” Let’s use it to make an impression that sticks.

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The Actor’s Secret That Makes Great Speakers Unforgettable

The Secret to Impactful Speaking and Performing

“What an actor has to do is be personal in public,” said the legendary acting teacher, Lee Strasberg. That phrase resonates deeply with anyone who has stood on a stage or in front of a camera—or who leads a team, pitches an idea, or delivers a keynote.

Strasberg wasn’t just teaching actors to “perform”; he was urging them to connect with their audience. His method encouraged authenticity, vulnerability, and presence. The same is true for speakers. Being in front of an audience makes you larger than life. That’s the nature of the stage. But size without sincerity is hollow. You must be both commanding and personal. That’s where the magic happens.

Let’s take this idea from theory to the screen…

Modern Movie Examples: When Actors Are Personal in Public

  1. A Star Is Born (Bradley Cooper and Lady Gaga)

Watch Ally’s first solo performance. She’s terrified. She doesn’t perform at the audience—she invites them in. That vulnerability is what makes the moment unforgettable. It’s personal. It’s public. It’s powerful.

  1. King Richard (Will Smith)

Smith plays Richard Williams, the intense, flawed, loving father of Venus and Serena. His speeches to his daughters and their coaches aren’t textbook performances—they’re emotionally charged, deeply personal declarations. Audiences felt it. So did the Academy.

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Do You Want to Know the Secret to Conquer Your Jitters When Speaking?

Here is the good news. Your audience will not know how you feel; they will only see how you act.

Delivering Your Speech Is More Than the Words

You’re waiting your turn to deliver your presentation when suddenly you realize that your stomach is doing flips and your mind is rapidly going blank. How do you conquer the jitters? People often ask me this question, and there is no single answer to it. The secret is to prepare mentally, physically, and logistically.

Mentally

Begin by understanding that you’ll spend a lot more time preparing than speaking. As a general rule, allocate three hours of preparation for a half-hour speech, resulting in a six-to-one ratio. When you’ve become a highly experienced speaker, you might be able to cut your preparation time. Until then, don’t skimp, because preparation is critical to success, even for skilled speakers.

Part of your preparation will be to memorize your opening and closing lines. Rehearse so you can effectively cover your key points from notes and know your opening and closing by heart, ensuring you can begin well and close on a high note. This will help you connect with your audience when you are most nervous.

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Making It Look Easy Isn’t Easy

Making It Look Easy Isn’t Easy

When we watch a brilliant comedian, captivating speaker, or talented entertainer, it’s easy to think, “They make it look so effortless!” That’s precisely the point. The smoother the performance, the more hours of preparation, refinement, and quiet struggle are behind it.

Years ago, I had the privilege of hearing Bud Friedman, founder of the legendary Improv Comedy Clubs, speak. In the Q&A, I asked, “Mr. Friedman, is there such a thing as natural talent?”

He smiled and said, “Yes… ButMaking it Look East Isn't Easy there is no such thing as overnight success. Jay Leno is naturally talented—and it took him 15 years.”

That moment stayed with me. It confirmed what I’ve seen over decades as a speaker, coach, and audience member: polish comes from practice.

Jay Leno: From Improv Regular to Late-Night Legend

Let’s use Jay Leno as the perfect example. In the early 1970s, Leno would drive from Boston to New York for the slimmest chance to get stage time at the original Improv Comedy Club. He often slept in his car, waiting to perform. He was persistent, funny, and—most importantly—willing to put in the reps.

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Guaranteed this is the Best Way to Gain More Time: Say “No”

Let’s be honest—we all have too much to do.

If you’re anything like me, there are times you feel overwhelmed just looking at your to-do list.

My brilliant friend Ford Saeks often says, “Fripp gets more done in an hour than most people do in a day.” I appreciate the compliment. I only wish it were always true!

Here’s what I’ve learned:

We don’t save time, we prioritize differently. That’s why the idea of saving just 15 minutes a day is more powerful than it sounds.

My Best Time-Saving Technique? Say “No” (and Mean It)

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Lost Without PowerPoint? 7 Tips to Make It Powerful

When I ask my clients, “How long is your presentation?” it scares me when they answer, “Twelve slides.” Even worse is when I ask, “How do you design your presentation?” and they respond, “We get the slide deck.”

Let’s be clear: PowerPoint is a very valuable tool, not a presentation. If you start with your slides, you’re putting the cart before the horse and sabotaging what could be a compelling and successful message.

Design First. Slides Later.

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