Last updated on Jul 10, 2024

Here's how you can confidently address interview questions on your public speaking skills.

When you're in the hot seat of an interview, being quizzed on your public speaking skills can trigger more butterflies than a keynote speech. But fear not! With the right preparation and mindset, you can turn this part of the interview into a showcase of your eloquence and confidence. Whether you're a seasoned speaker or someone who's just starting to dip their toes into the world of presentations, understanding how to effectively communicate your skills can make all the difference.

1 Reflect Deeply

Before stepping into an interview, take time to reflect on your past speaking experiences. Think about presentations you've delivered, audiences you've engaged, and messages you've conveyed. This introspection will not only provide you with concrete examples to share but also help you understand your unique style and strengths. When asked about your public speaking skills, share specific instances that demonstrate your ability to captivate an audience, handle unexpected questions, or convey complex information clearly.

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2 Embrace Storytelling

Interviews are the perfect platform to tell a story about your journey with public speaking. When asked about your skills, craft responses that take listeners on a journey through your most impactful speaking engagements. Highlight moments where you overcame nerves, connected with an audience, or received positive feedback. Stories resonate with interviewers and make your experiences more memorable, painting a vivid picture of your capabilities.

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Bruno Correa

Top Voice LinkedIn | Head of Product and Technology | Driving the Future of E-commerce, Fintech, and Insurtech with Pioneering AI
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Confidently address interview questions on your public speaking skills by highlighting your ability to embrace storytelling, turning data and facts into compelling narratives that captivate audiences. Share examples of how you've used personal anecdotes and relatable stories to make complex concepts accessible and memorable. Demonstrate your skill in crafting engaging, story-driven presentations that resonate emotionally and intellectually with listeners. Emphasize your commitment to continuous improvement in storytelling techniques, ensuring your public speaking remains impactful and relevant in any context.

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3 Highlight Preparation

One key to successful public speaking is thorough preparation. When discussing your skills, emphasize the steps you take to prepare for a presentation. This might include researching your audience, tailoring your content, rehearsing your delivery, and anticipating questions. By detailing your preparation process, you demonstrate professionalism and dedication to excellence, which are highly valued in any role.

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4 Showcase Adaptability

Public speaking often involves thinking on your feet. Illustrate your adaptability by recounting times when you had to adjust your presentation on the fly or respond to a challenging audience. Discussing how you handle such situations shows that you're not only a skilled speaker but also someone who can remain composed and effective under pressure.

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5 Discuss Feedback

Feedback is a powerful tool for growth, especially in public speaking. When interviewers inquire about your speaking skills, mention any constructive criticism you've received and how you've used it to improve. This shows that you are open to learning and committed to personal development. It also indicates that you value others' perspectives and are willing to work on areas that need enhancement.

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6 Offer Assurance

Lastly, provide assurance of your public speaking abilities by confidently expressing your readiness to take on speaking roles or presentations as part of your potential job. Conveying confidence in your skills reassures interviewers that you are capable of representing the company in a public forum and that you view communication as a vital part of professional success.

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Ashley Kleinsmith

Notary | Accountant | Writer | Student
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Remember to smile, but also be aware that not all smiles will have the same effect on how others perceive you. Smiling leads to more positive interactions by portraying self-confidence, building rapport, and instilling confidence in how others view your abilities. A broad smile conveys warmth and friendliness, while a more subtle smile - competence. Using the right type of smile at the right times can improve how others perceive your skills.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can confidently address interview questions on your public speaking skills.

1

2

3

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1 Reflect Deeply

2 Embrace Storytelling

3 Highlight Preparation

4 Showcase Adaptability

5 Discuss Feedback

6 Offer Assurance

7 Here’s what else to consider

Presentation Skills

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Here's how you can confidently address interview questions on your public speaking skills.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Reflect Deeply

2 Embrace Storytelling

3 Highlight Preparation

4 Showcase Adaptability

5 Discuss Feedback

6 Offer Assurance

7 Here’s what else to consider

Presentation Skills

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