Speaking in front of people — whether it’s in a meeting, at an event, or even just in a casual conversation — can feel nerve-wracking.
However, confidence isn’t something you either have or don’t have; it’s something you can build over time. What’s great is that you don’t need to be naturally outgoing or the loudest person in the room to be a great speaker. With a few small changes, you can feel more at ease and get your message across with confidence. While it’s unlikely you’ll have to give many major speeches in the future, doing these things will make you sound way more self-assured when you do need to get a message across.
1. Practise speaking out loud regularly.
Confidence comes from familiarity, so the more you practise speaking, the easier it gets. Even if it’s just talking to yourself at home, reading aloud, or rehearsing a conversation, it helps build fluency and ease. Getting used to hearing your own voice out loud removes some of the nerves when it comes to speaking in front of other people. It doesn’t need to be a full speech — just getting comfortable forming words without overthinking makes a big difference.
2. Slow down instead of rushing your words.
Nerves tend to make people speak too quickly, which can make you harder to understand and more likely to trip over your words. Slowing down makes you sound more confident and gives you time to gather your thoughts. Pausing between sentences gives you a natural rhythm and makes your message clearer. If you feel yourself speeding up, take a breath and reset. A steady pace makes you seem in control, even if you’re nervous inside.
3. Make eye contact to engage your audience.
Eye contact makes a huge difference in how confident you appear. Whether you’re talking to one person or a whole group, looking people in the eye creates a connection and makes your words more impactful. If full eye contact feels intimidating, try looking at different points around the room or focusing on a friendly face. It makes your speaking feel more natural and keeps people engaged in what you’re saying.
4. Focus on your breathing to stay calm.
Shaky voice? Racing heart? It’s usually down to shallow breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths before and during speaking helps calm your nerves and gives your voice a steady, controlled sound. Try inhaling deeply before you start speaking and pausing to breathe between sentences. Not only will you feel calmer, but your words will come out clearer and more confidently.
5. Use hand gestures to express yourself naturally.
Using your hands when you speak can actually make you feel more confident. Natural gestures help emphasise your points and make your delivery more engaging, so don’t be afraid to use them. If you’re not sure what to do with your hands, try resting them loosely in front of you and letting movements happen naturally. Avoid fidgeting or keeping them in your pockets, as this can make you seem closed off.
6. Record yourself to hear how you sound.
It might feel a bit awkward at first, but recording yourself speaking is one of the best ways to improve. Hearing how you sound helps you spot areas where you can slow down, speak more clearly, or add more expression. Play it back and make small tweaks each time. Over time, you’ll notice improvements, and you’ll start feeling more comfortable with your own voice.
7. Know your topic so you feel prepared.
Confidence comes from knowing what you’re talking about. If you’re giving a presentation, leading a discussion, or even just making a point in conversation, being prepared helps you feel more in control. You don’t need to memorise everything word for word — just having a clear idea of your key points makes it easier to speak without hesitation. When you feel knowledgeable, confidence follows naturally.
8. Practise in low-pressure situations.
If speaking in front of a big group feels overwhelming, start small. Practise with friends, chat more in meetings, or even rehearse in front of a mirror to build your confidence gradually. The more you get used to speaking in different settings, the easier it becomes. Small wins build momentum, and before you know it, speaking up won’t feel like a big deal.
9. Avoid filler words like “um” and “like.”
Filler words sneak in when you’re unsure, but they can make you sound less confident. Instead of saying “um” or “like” when you need a moment to think, try pausing instead. A short silence feels more powerful than filling the gap with unnecessary words. It makes you sound more in control and gives your audience time to process what you’re saying.
10. Stand or sit with good posture.
Your body language affects how confident you feel and how other people see you. Standing or sitting up straight with your shoulders back makes you look and feel more self-assured. Slouching or crossing your arms can make you seem unsure, even if you’re saying all the right things. Good posture not only improves your presence but also helps with breathing and voice projection.
11. Watch confident speakers and learn from them.
Pay attention to people who speak with confidence, whether it’s public speakers, presenters, or even friends who are great at telling stories. Notice their pace, tone, and body language. Learning from other people gives you inspiration and techniques to try in your own speaking. You don’t have to copy anyone exactly — just pick up on the things that make them engaging and adapt them to suit your style.
12. Get comfortable with silence.
Source: Unsplash Silence can feel awkward when you’re speaking, but it’s actually a sign of confidence. Pausing for a second or two before answering a question or moving to your next point shows that you’re in control. Instead of rushing to fill the space, embrace short pauses. It makes you seem more thoughtful and gives your words more impact.
13. Remind yourself that people want you to do well.
Source: Unsplash Most people aren’t sitting there judging you — they’re listening because they’re interested in what you have to say. Remembering that people are on your side takes the pressure off. Even if you make a mistake, most people won’t even notice, and those who do won’t care as much as you think. Shifting your mindset helps you relax and focus on your message instead of your nerves.
14. Speak with energy and enthusiasm.
Source: Unsplash People engage more when you sound enthusiastic about what you’re saying. Even if you’re naturally soft-spoken, adding a bit more energy to your voice makes a huge difference in how confident you come across. Try varying your tone and volume instead of speaking in a monotone. Passion is contagious, and when you sound interested, people will be more interested in listening.
15. Keep practising, even when it feels uncomfortable.
Source: Unsplash Confidence in speaking isn’t something that appears overnight — it comes from repetition. The more you push yourself to speak in different situations, the easier it gets. Even when it feels nerve-wracking, every experience helps you improve. Over time, what once felt intimidating will start to feel natural, and speaking with confidence will become second nature.
