How to Build Unshakable Confidence as a Speaker

Whether you’re speaking at work, in a meeting, or on stage, these 5 steps will help you build real, lasting confidence.

Confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build.

Ever watched a speaker own the room and thought, “Wow, I wish I could be that confident?”

Here’s the truth: Even the best speakers started out nervous. 

The difference? They learned how to train their confidence—just like a muscle.

Here’s how you can do the same.

Step 1: Reframe Your Nerves (They’re Actually a Good Thing!)

That racing heartbeat? The sweaty palms? The shaky voice?

It’s NOT a sign you’re bad at speaking. 

It’s your body preparing to perform at its best. Top athletes feel the same adrenaline before a big game—but instead of fighting it, they use it.

Try this: 

Next time you feel nervous, tell yourself: “I’m not nervous—I’m excited.”

Research shows this tiny mental shift makes you feel more in control.

Step 2: Train Your Confidence Like a Skill

Would you expect to lift 100kg the first time you go to the gym? No.

But many people expect to be perfect speakers without training.

Confidence isn’t something you HAVE. It’s something you DO.

Here’s how to start: 

1. Practice OUT LOUD—not just in your head.

Your voice needs training too! 

2. Record yourself speaking—watch it, tweak it, improve. 

3. Start small. Speak up more in meetings.

Give a toast at dinner. The more you do it, the easier it gets.

Step 3: Master the Art of Presence

The way you carry yourself is half the battle.

Presenting with Confidence

🔹 Stand tall. Slouching makes you feel AND look unsure. 

🔹 Pause often. Rushing makes you sound nervous. Slow it down. 

🔹 Make eye contact. Instead of looking down or away, look at your audience.

Want to look confident even if you don’t feel it? 

Act as if you already are, the mind follows the body.

Step 4: Prepare Like a Pro (The Secret Weapon)

The world’s best speakers don’t just “wing it.” 

They prepare strategically.

1. Know your opening line by heart. It helps you start strong. 

2. Rehearse in different ways. Standing, sitting, walking. 

3. Do a “dress rehearsal.” Wear what you’ll wear on stage, and practice in full form.

Confidence comes from preparation. 

The more prepared you are, the more natural  you’ll feel.

Step 5: Shift the Focus OFF Yourself

Ever worried about looking awkward? Forgetting your words? Sounding boring?

The #1 confidence killer is being too focused on yourself Instead, focus on your audience. 

🔹 What do they need to hear? 

🔹 How can you help THEM? 

🔹 What problem are you solving?

When you shift the focus to serving others, your nerves start to fade.

Confidence is a Journey, Not a Destination

So you won’t wake up one day suddenly fearless. But every time you speak, every small step you take, you’re building unshakable confidence.

What’s ONE thing you’ll start doing today to boost your confidence?

Drop a comment below!

This month, we are looking at Confidence in Presentations, learn more here and start presenting fearlessly