The Ambassador’s Guide to Public Speaking

How to overcome nerves and make an inspiring speech

Welcome to the 20th edition of the Gazette. We’ve come a long way since September, and with more growth come more questions and requests.

A subscriber asked me to write about how to become a powerful public speaker, and to recommend the best courses that could help her inspire.

I’ve posted one or two tips on LinkedIn, such a vital (but for many, tricky) diplomatic skill deserves a little more depth.

This edition comes with the best condensed advice to turn you into an inspiring public speaker. There’s also another actionable diplomacy micro-guide, plus links to courses and learning tailored to your level, in person and remote.

Image: speaking in Hanoi as Ambassador to Vietnam, with then Foreign Minister Phạm Bình Minh

Speaking to a small group of diplomats around a dinner table, 50,000 football fans at a stadium, or millions of peak-time viewers on national TV, I’ve found the same psychology applies:

Public speaking can be nerve-wracking or it can be invigorating. How it feels and how you perform hinge on your mindset, and taking some simple steps to strengthen it.

How to do that, and how to inspire your audience?

The headline answer is to reframe the situation from “hostile and intimidating” to “opportunity to connect and enjoy”. You speak in service of your audience, offering them value you believe in. Nerves don’t have to undermine your speech: they can help you sharpen it.

Imagine an inspiring speaker who looks like you and has your name, but adores public speaking. You can step into that character, with their posture, style, voice and emotions.

These 10 practical steps will give you that confident mindset.

Immediately after the headlines you’ll find the full downloadable Ambassador’s Guide to Public Speaking.

1️⃣ SCENARIO