How To Prepare For A Public Speaking Event
A step-by-step guide from the SpeakUp team to help you deliver an unforgettable talk
Why Preparation Matters More Than Talent
Even the most inspiring speakers weren't born confident — they prepared.
Public speaking isn't about having the loudest voice; it's about being clear, authentic, and connected with your audience.
Whether you're speaking at a conference, on a podcast, or at a corporate event, preparation turns nervous energy into impact.
Confidence is built — not gifted.
Understand Your Audience and Event
Before you even write your first sentence, know who you're speaking to and why they're there.
If you're a SpeakUp speaker, use your event dashboard to view details about the event, location, and organizer preferences.
The more context you have, the more tailored and powerful your message will be.
Structure Your Message Around One Core Idea
Great talks aren't about saying more — they're about saying the right thing memorably.
Use the 3-Act Framework:
Hook
Start with a story, question, or surprising fact.
Heart
Share the main insights or data that matter.
Hope
End with an emotional or actionable takeaway.
Tip: If you're unsure how to frame your talk, visit the Growth Marketplace on SpeakUp — where communication coaches help refine your speech and storytelling style.
Rehearse Like It's Real
Rehearsing once isn't enough.
SpeakUp's professional speakers suggest using the "3x Rule":
The 3x Rule
First time
Get comfortable with the content.
Second time
Focus on pacing and emotion.
Third time
Simulate the real event (with timing and gestures).
Record yourself or book a presentation coach from the Speaker Growth & Coaching section of the marketplace to get professional feedback on your tone, clarity, and delivery.
Prepare Your Visuals — But Don't Let Them Speak for You
Slides should support your message, not replace it.
Keep them clean:
Need help? The Production & Visual Content category in the SpeakUp Marketplace includes:
- Presentation designers (PowerPoint, Canva, Keynote)
- Video production studios
- Photographers for professional speaker portfolios
Your visuals should amplify your story — not distract from it.
Manage Your Energy, Not Just Your Script
Your energy defines your audience's engagement.
The night before:
- Sleep well
- Avoid heavy meals and caffeine overload
- Practice deep breathing or meditation
- Visualize the room and the applause
Before going on stage:
- Take 3 deep breaths
- Smile — your brain releases endorphins
- Focus on your message, not yourself
Use Feedback to Evolve
Public speaking is a skill that compounds.
After each event, review what worked — and what didn't. On SpeakUp, you don't have to guess:
Organizers leave detailed feedback on your performance
You can also rate organizers and share your experience
The system tracks your achievements and milestones
Your profile grows stronger with every event — making you visible to more organizers, podcasters, and media.
Learn from the Community
The most successful speakers don't just perform — they collaborate.
Inside SpeakUp, you'll find:
Mentors and coaches
Private community chats
Annual Big Industry Report — with real analytics on trending topics, industries, and audience demand
When you grow, the ecosystem grows with you.
At SpeakUp, every talk moves the entire industry forward.
Bonus: The Ultimate Checklist Before You Step On Stage
You've done the work — now enjoy the moment.
The audience doesn't want perfection, they want connection.
Final Thoughts
Preparation is the bridge between fear and influence.
With tools like SpeakUp's AI Matching, Growth Marketplace, and in-app feedback, you don't just prepare for one event — you build a speaking career that compounds over time.
The more you speak, the more the world listens.
The more you learn, the more opportunities you unlock.