Speaker credibility, or credibility in speech, is the trustworthiness of a speaker on their chosen topic. This credibility could take the form of specific credentials, personal experience, or another factor that directly contributes to their trustworthiness. If the speaker is not credible, their words become meaningless.
Trust builds through lived experience, time invested, and knowledge. You do not need to possess all three to be a credible speaker. However, it is crucial to embody at least one characteristic when giving a speech.
Because credibility is such a determining factor in accepting a talk, it is crucial to india phone number list establish credibility in a speech as soon as possible. You can establish credibility before taking the stage or after:
Before: Known credentials (Dr., Masters in ____, etc.)
After: Credibility statement (discussed later)
Whether you establish it before or after taking the stage, you must incorporate the following credibility steps into your overall speech.
How to Establish Speaker Credibility
A concise way to establish your credibility early in your speech is by presenting your audience with a credibility statement. A credibility statement simply explains your accolades, certifications, or other areas of credibility. This statement may seem simple enough in theory, but there is a methodology to making yourself appear credible on stage:
1. Give A Credibility Statement
Lewis University states, “a credibility statement tells the audience why you are experienced enough to give this speech, whether through personal experience or education.” Therefore, regardless of if you’ve educated yourself traditionally or worked in the field, you must establish your credibility with a brief statement.