3 Secrets of Great Public Speaking: Pause, Voice, and Storytelling

When it comes to public speaking and communication coaching in the UK, many professionals focus on what to say—but overlook how to say it. Words matter, of course, but delivery is what makes the difference between a forgettable presentation and one that leaves a lasting impact.

Drawing inspiration from world-class communication experts like Robin Kermode, we believe there are three essential tools every professional should master: the power of pause, the strength of your voice, and the art of storytelling.

These three techniques form the foundation of every great communicator—and the good news is, they can all be learned through the right public speaking course or with the support of an experienced public speaking coach.


1. The Power of Pause

Many speakers rush through their words, often because of nerves. But the best communicators know that silence is not your enemy—it’s your ally.

✅ A pause allows your audience to digest what you’ve said
✅ It emphasises your key points
✅ It makes you appear calm and in control

Think of some of the world’s greatest speeches—from Martin Luther King Jr. to Barack Obama. Their impact often comes not from rushing, but from knowing when to stop, breathe, and let their words land.

Pro tip: Practise inserting pauses before and after important ideas. It will give your audience space to connect with your message.

👉 In our public speaking classes, we teach practical techniques for mastering the pause, so you can stay composed even under pressure.


2. Your Voice Matters

Your voice is one of the most powerful tools you have as a speaker, yet it’s often overlooked. The way you use tone, pace, and energy can either engage your audience or lose them.

A strong vocal delivery means:

  • Varying your pace so you don’t sound monotonous
  • Changing your tone to reflect emotion and emphasis
  • Using energy to keep your audience engaged

Without vocal variety, even the best content will fall flat.

Pro tip: Record yourself delivering a presentation and listen back. Are you monotone? Too fast? Too quiet? Awareness is the first step towards improvement.

👉 A public speaking coach can help you strengthen your voice, use diaphragmatic breathing, and sound more confident and compelling in every situation.


3. Storytelling in Business

Facts and figures inform—but stories inspire. That’s why the best leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals use storytelling as a tool to connect with their audience.

A well-told story can:

  • Make complex ideas simple and relatable
  • Build emotional connection with your audience
  • Ensure people remember your message long after the presentation is over

Whether you’re pitching to investors, leading a team, or giving a keynote, storytelling is your secret weapon.

Pro tip: Use the “What – So What – Now What” framework. Explain what happened, why it matters, and what it means for your audience moving forward.

👉 In our public speaking courses, we show you how to craft stories that resonate and influence—whether you’re in the boardroom or on stage.


Why These 3 Skills Matter More Than Ever

In today’s competitive world, professionals who can pause with confidence, speak with impact, and tell powerful stories stand out. These aren’t just presentation skills—they’re leadership skills.

But here’s the truth: nobody is born with them. They are learned skills. And with the right guidance, practice, and coaching, anyone can master them.

That’s where our communication coaching in the UK comes in.


Conclusion: Ready to Transform Your Speaking Skills?

The secrets of great public speaking aren’t complicated. They’re built on simple but powerful techniques: pausing, vocal delivery, and storytelling. But like any skill, they take practice—and the right coaching.

At Believe in Greatness, we’ve helped hundreds of professionals through our public speaking courses and public speaking classes in the UK. Whether you want to overcome nerves, develop executive presence, or simply deliver with more confidence, we can help.

📩 Ready to master the art of communication?
Get in touch today to learn more about our public speaking coaching programmes and start your journey towards speaking with clarity, confidence, and impact.

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