The art of public speaking and media engagement goes beyond polished and prepared talking points and facts - they are built on authenticity, empathy, and the ability to connect through storytelling.
Telum Media spoke to Tim Ayliffe and Steve Carey, seasoned TV journalists turned communications professionals, who shared how preparation, emotional intelligence, and purpose can elevate any engagement. Their advice underscores that lasting impact comes from balancing authority with compassion and delivering messages that connect with audiences.
What are the key elements that make media interviews and public speaking engagements impactful?
Steve Carey
The key to impactful speaking lies in connecting with your audience in a way that feels real and memorable. Those who speak with passion, conviction, and a sense of purpose tend to leave a mark.
Strong anecdotes or personal stories help bridge the gap between the speaker and the listener because they are relatable. For example, a victim of crime sharing the raw shock, fear, and long-term impact of their experience, or a champion footballer celebrating a win, showing the elation through voice, movement, and emotion.
Ultimately, it's about having a strong, authentic message that resonates with a wider audience, delivered with honesty and clarity. Those who bring a deadpan or listless energy tend to fail and certainly don’t connect with anyone watching, reading or listening.
Tim Ayliffe
Three things come to mind: authenticity, honesty, and what I like to call "relating the personal".
Whether people agree with you or not, they will always listen when they feel a connection. Sharing something personal or drawn from real life can often achieve that.
Media interviews and public speaking engagements are storytelling opportunities, so it is important to make sure you have a good story to tell.
Throughout your career, you've seen countless examples of people engaging with the media or speaking publicly. What's one common thing they often get wrong without realising?
Tim Ayliffe
People who rely too heavily on talking points lose audiences quickly because they come across as inauthentic and rehearsed. Those who are overwhelmingly negative can also lead to audiences switching off.
Steve Carey
The most common mistake is people not taking a strong position. Sitting on the fence and "waffling" provides journalists and the audience with little value.
To avoid this, always:
• Know what you want to say (top three messages) and rehearse it.
• Pressure-test your arguments with a colleague or trainer before facing the media or audience.
• Bring fresh data or a strong case study to back up your story.
• Avoid jargon or acronyms, as they are barriers to clear communication.
Soft skills like empathy and emotional intelligence are often overlooked in public speaking. How do they influence how a message is received, and how can professionals strengthen these skills?
Steve Carey
Empathy and emotional intelligence shape how your message is received, particularly when delivering tough or sensitive news.
Some key approaches include:
• Consider how the audience will hear and interpret your words - what do they want / need to hear?
• In a crisis, acknowledge those directly affected first because it sets the tone.
• Always ask yourself, "Does this pass the pub test?" If not, think again!
• Rehearse your top three messages with a trusted colleague or professional.
These steps ensure your message balances authority with compassion and respect.
Tim Ayliffe
Real-life examples that support an argument are crucial to a good interview, or speech. Relating a topic to people shows a level of empathy and understanding that is crucial to delivering messages that people will understand and connect with.
When preparing for a media interview or major presentation, what are your top strategies for delivering with impact and managing nerves?
Tim Ayliffe
No matter how experienced you are, you should always have a plan for every public speaking opportunity.
If you are someone who likes to write notes, ensure they're short and in bullet-point form so that you don't get caught out trying to recite a script. But once the interview starts, put your notes away - you won't need them if you have prepared properly.
Also, take a moment for yourself before the interview begins and avoid rushing.
Steve Carey
Preparation and mindset are critical. To deliver with impact, know your topic and craft three clear key messages, rehearse using plain and conversational language, and use a strong anecdote or key data point to set the tone.
For managing nerves, three simple strategies work well. Take several deep breaths before speaking to calm your nerves and steady your voice. Drop your shoulders slightly to reduce tension, which improves overall delivery. Finally, imagine the audience as family friends to shift into a more relaxed storytelling mode.
Many junior professionals hesitate to voice their opinions in meetings or on public platforms. What advice would you give to help them step out of their comfort zone and build confidence in speaking up?
Steve Carey
Confidence grows through preparation and practice.
To step out of your comfort zone, frame your question or comment in terms of its value to the business or audience. Judge the moment and take opportunities when invited. Keep your contributions short, sharp, and to the point. And, accept that the first attempt may not be perfect, but persistence will build confidence.
The more often you contribute, the easier and more natural it becomes.
Tim Ayliffe
People should never be afraid to speak up if they have something important or valuable to add. Pick your moment and keep your cool.