Lessons From My 200th Speech

Last month, I delivered my 200th keynote. Here's what I've learned from all those speeches

Somewhere in the last month, I realized that I recently delivered my 200th speaking keynote. Because I often get asked for advice from those who are interested in speaking, this seemed like a good milestone to take a few minutes and reflect on what I have learned over the course of hundreds of talks.

Public speaking is many people’s greatest fear, but it’s also one of the most important ways to influence and inspire people. Almost all leaders are called to speak, whether to clients, colleagues, boards, investors, or teams. Communication is leadership. And the same disciplines that sharpen your message on a stage strengthen your impact in every team meeting, presentation or talk.

Here are a few of the lessons I’ve learned from 200 speeches.