Public Speaking: Elements of Success Public speaking is a transactional process, and you have a responsibility as a speaker to develop and deliver your message in the most effective manner possible. How’s that done? Start by considering the nine elements that constitute a successful speaker:

1. The successful speaker’s purpose is clear.

2. The speaker’s attitudes toward self, audience, and topic promote success.

3. The successful speaker establishes and demonstrates credibility.

4. The successful speaker develops the topic to meet the needs of the audience and the occasion.

5. The successful speaker organizes the topic to promote the audience’s understanding or acceptance of the purpose of the message.

6. The language style and choice of the successful speaker is appropriate to the audience and occasion, and is exceptionally clear and vivid.

7. The successful speaker’s use of voice and gestures (especially eye contact and facial expressions) demonstrates confidence and interest in topic and audience.

8. The successful speaker’s use of space and movement is appropriate to the situation and demonstrates confidence.

9. The successful speaker’s dress is appropriate for the occasion and promotes professionalism.