Why First Impressions Matter in Public Speaking
Did you know it only takes seven seconds to make a great first impression on stage? That’s why mastering these tips for public speaking is so important.
The Science Behind Seven Seconds
Why seven? A number of studies show that as humans, we form a first impression within seven seconds, and most of that judgement is based on non-verbal cues, not our words, but what people see.
Therefore, if you’re a speaker, host, or even just someone walking into a room of strangers, your body language is doing most of the talking long before you open your mouth. This is just as true at corporate events, where first impressions can set the tone for the entire evening.
Hence why “make a good first impression” is one of the essential tips for public speaking. Because if you can nail the start, the rest of your talk has a much better chance of landing.
The 7-Second Rule Explained
So, how do you get those first 7 seconds right? Fortunately, I use three simple techniques that any presenter can apply.
Three Essential Tips for Public Speaking Success
Eye Contact (But Don’t Stare Them Down)
Eye contact is one of the simplest tips for public speaking, because it builds instant trust with your audience.
When I step on stage, I never look straight at the lectern or the floor. Instead, I look out to the audience. Even before I speak, I let them know: I see you, I want to engage with you.
In a smaller setting, eye contact works the same way. Whether it’s a meeting, a pitch, or a handshake, giving people your attention helps build instant trust.
The trick is balance: scan the room, hold eye contact briefly, and then move on. For example, avoid a “staring contest” that just makes people uncomfortable.
Open & Confident Body Language
Your body speaks louder than your words. As a result, the fastest way to improve stage presence is by adjusting your stance.
Stand tall, relax your shoulders, and avoid crossing your arms. Open body language signals confidence, but it also makes you appear approachable.
On stage, I like to plant my feet firmly, face the audience, and use gestures that feel natural and open. This simple shift instantly changes how people perceive you.
In addition, if you want to practise, try recording yourself walking into a room or standing at the front. You’ll quickly see how posture and gestures impact the way you come across.
Smile Like You Mean It
Want the fastest way to show you’re not a threat? Smile.
A genuine smile (not the forced “school photo” kind) makes people relax and warms them to you instantly. It signals friendliness, confidence, and approachability — all before you’ve said a word.
When I walk on stage, I always remind myself: “Smile like you’re welcoming old friends.” Consequently, it shifts my energy and theirs.
How to Open a Presentation with Impact
So you’ve nailed the first impression — now what?
The next step is knowing how to open a presentation. If the first seven seconds are about body language, the first 30 seconds are about hooking your audience with words. According to Forbes, first impressions heavily influence audience perception.
Here are three approaches that work:
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Ask a bold question: “What would you do if you only had seven seconds to make an impression?”
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Share a quick story: Personal anecdotes are powerful for building connection.
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Use humour: A light, relevant joke can instantly relax a room.
Therefore, when you pair a strong verbal opening with great non-verbal presence, you’ll have your audience’s attention from the start.
Final Thought: Tips for Public Speaking That Last
The best speakers don’t leave first impressions to chance, they craft them deliberately.
Eye contact. Open body language. A genuine smile. Combine those with a strong opening line, and you’ll instantly elevate your impact on stage.
If you apply these tips for public speaking, you’ll nail those first seven seconds and keep your audience engaged. Because in the world of public speaking, how you begin often determines how the audience will remember you.
👉 Want to sharpen your own presenting skills? Take a look at my Keynote Speaker page to see how I help teams improve communication and engagement.