Becoming a good presenter takes more than just improving your eye contact and body language. Truly impactful presenting requires real introspection. To develop a confident presence, consider starting with three areas of inner work.

Uncover hidden barriers. One effective way to boost your public-speaking confidence is to explore what might be quietly holding you back. Sometimes, underlying priorities or fears—like a desire to avoid vulnerability—can interfere with your presence. By identifying these hidden barriers, you can move past them and build lasting confidence.

Embrace a “portfolio of selves.” Everyone has a range of “selves” based on context. You can choose to embody a “confident self” or “mentor self” who believes in your own value and purpose. This shift can transform a timid presence into a powerful one, allowing you to connect more deeply with the audience.

Rewrite the internal story. Start by separating fact from fiction. If you’re worried about being misunderstood, for example, your instinct might be to tell yourself, “I speak too fast, and people won’t follow.” Instead, choose a more constructive story. Think, “I can slow down and check in with the audience to make sure they’re following.” This will help you feel more grounded and confident.
This tip is adapted from “To Become a Better Presenter, Look Inward,” by Deborah Grayson Riegel.
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