Every speaker is a teacher. When it comes to speaking, every speaker you encounter, whether in a conference, on a stage, or even in a casual setting, offers an opportunity to learn. This isn’t a new idea, but it’s one worth revisiting regularly. By taking advantage of every chance to observe other speakers, you can uncover powerful lessons to help refine your own speaking skills.
The key question to ask yourself when watching a speaker is simple: What can I learn from this person?
The Three Types of Lessons
Over the years, I’ve noticed that speakers tend to fall into three categories when it comes to the lessons they offer:
- Speakers who inspire you to learn more
These are the speakers who make you think, “Wow, I’ve got so much to learn.” Their skills, presence, and delivery set a benchmark for what’s possible. - Speakers who boost your confidence
These are the speakers that make you realise, “You know what? I’m not too bad at this.” It’s not about arrogance but about acknowledging the growth you’ve already achieved. - Speakers who remind you of how far you’ve come
Every now and then, you’ll watch a speaker and think, “I’ve come such a long way.” This isn’t about criticism but rather recognising the value of your own experience and effort.
Focus on Learning, Not Judging
The point of observing other speakers isn’t to pick apart their faults or feel unworthy in comparison. It’s about remembering that every speaker is a teacher and identifying what they do well and learning from it.
- Did their topic capture attention? A great topic is essential, but it’s only one part of the equation.
- Did they deliver on their topic? It’s disappointing when a compelling subject is let down by a lacklustre presentation.
- How did they engage the audience? Notice the techniques they used to connect.
Observe with Purpose
Whenever I attend a conference or event, I make it a point to watch other speakers closely. I’m not just there for my own session, I’m in the room with a notepad and pen, soaking up as much as I can.
Even if the topic isn’t directly relevant to me (I don’t need to become an expert on strata titles or dental equipment), I’m looking at how the speaker interacts with the audience.
- How did they open? Was it aspirational or engaging?
- How did their energy flow throughout the presentation? Did they lose the audience at any point, and if so, did they get them back?
- What were the moments of deep connection?
These observations are gold. I file them away in my mind to apply to my own speaking journey.
A Lifelong Commitment to Mastery
Becoming a world-class speaker is not something you achieve overnight, or even in a year. It’s a lifelong process. The best speakers I know understand that this is a journey of constant improvement.
When you consciously work to get better, little by little, the results are transformative.
A Final Reminder, Every Speaker is a Teacher
As speakers, we have no shortage of opportunities to learn. At the very least, make sure you’ve seen presentations, live or recorded, from your main competitors. This is particularly important now, as so many speakers seem to lack focus. One moment they’re speaking about one thing, the next about something entirely unrelated.
Learning from others is your chance to stay ahead, refine your craft, and consistently grow.
So, the next time you see a speaker, whether they’re inspiring, reassuring, or simply reminding you of how far you’ve come, take it as an opportunity. Watch, listen, and learn.
That’s the path to greatness.
