Introduction
We’ve all been to events in Perth where the speaker just didn’t land the message—maybe a wedding speech lost to the wind or a business keynote that had guests scrolling their phones. But a great speaker does more than talk; they create unforgettable moments.
I’m Nathan Baws, a speaker who’s had the privilege of engaging audiences across Perth—from buzzing Fremantle markets to intimate Subiaco celebrations. Over the years, I’ve discovered the seven essential traits that transform a speech into something truly memorable.
Key Takeaways
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A skilled speaker captures and keeps attention.
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These traits apply to events of any size or setting in Perth.
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I bring these qualities to every talk I give, with heart and purpose.
1. Speak So Everyone Understands
Keep It Clear and Relatable
The best speakers make sure every guest—from front row to back—is fully tuned in. I always tailor my voice and tone to fit the space, like I did at a Kings Park charity event where over 300 people caught every word.
Use Everyday Language
Ditching complex jargon for straightforward talk helps keep messages digestible. Whether it’s kids, seniors, or business leaders, plain speaking ensures everyone connects, like at a recent East Perth luncheon with 160 guests.
Structure Matters
Great talks follow a smooth, story-like arc. At a Fremantle community fair, I shared tales of WA’s coastline, weaving personal stories into a natural rhythm that kept 350 attendees engaged from start to finish.
Practice for Authenticity
Rehearsal is key. I prepare meticulously so my delivery sounds easy, not stiff—like the heartfelt toast I gave at a Subiaco wedding that had all 110 guests leaning in.
2. Confidence That Commands Attention
Own the Moment
A confident speaker sets the tone. Whether I’m walking on stage at a Northbridge gallery or speaking to a packed house, I open with energy and intention, earning immediate attention.
Handle Surprises with Poise
Unexpected moments—like a faulty mic—don’t shake me. At a Joondalup school event, when the sound cut out, I kept going with humor and volume, holding 170 students’ focus.
Body Language That Supports
Gestures and movement should feel natural, not forced. At a Scarborough beachfront event, relaxed body language helped me build trust with a crowd of over 500.
Earn Audience Trust
Confidence builds credibility. At a Claremont charity event, my steady tone inspired trust, encouraging over 130 donors to rally behind the cause.
3. Charisma That Connects Instantly
Create a Spark
Charisma is the glue that holds attention. At a local charity run in Perth, I brought energy and humour that had over 450 runners smiling before they even hit the starting line.
Humour That Resonates
Well-placed jokes humanize the moment. A quick laugh about Perth’s café obsession turned a Leederville talk with 90 attendees into a relaxed, memorable chat.
Celebrate Local Culture
Referencing shared experiences, like WA’s beaches or market scenes, creates an instant connection. It’s about speaking with the crowd, not at them.
Authenticity Above All
Charisma is real when it’s honest. At a Subiaco professional seminar, I spoke about my early days in public speaking, which struck a chord with the 190 attendees.
4. Adaptability That Makes Every Event Work
Read the Room
A speaker who can pivot is a speaker who connects. At a Burswood music night, I sensed the upbeat energy and kept things brief and punchy for the 650-person crowd.
Tailor to the Setting
No two events are alike. For a Swan Valley executive retreat, I built a tailored presentation that hit the mark with 120 business leaders.
Engage All Demographics
From youth festivals to retirement gatherings, I adapt stories and tone to include everyone. At a Northbridge market, my talk kept kids and grandparents engaged alike.
Pivot When Needed
When rain hit a Cottesloe beach wedding, I shifted my outdoor speech into a warm, indoor celebration, keeping 140 guests entertained and relaxed.
5. Empathy That Deepens the Message
Feel What They Feel
Empathy bridges the gap between speaker and audience. At a Perth fundraiser, I spoke to the crowd’s shared values, and their response was powerful.
Share Your Journey
Opening up helps others connect. At a Leederville reunion, I talked about my move to WA and how it shaped me, making the moment feel personal for all 80 guests.
Watch and React
I watch facial expressions to adjust delivery. At a Subiaco conference, slowing my pace helped 210 professionals fully absorb the message.
Make People Feel Seen
Recognising the local spirit or shared goals turns a speech into a shared experience—something I always aim for in every Perth talk.
6. Preparation That Brings Confidence
Know the Material
Being overprepared lets me focus on the crowd. At a Claremont business event, my preparation gave me the freedom to speak naturally and confidently.
Know the Audience
I research every crowd I speak to. For a Northbridge art fair, I explored local creators and incorporated them into the talk, instantly building rapport with 360 people.
Practice Until It Flows
I rehearse voice, pace, and energy to ensure the talk feels like a conversation. At a Joondalup school event, 190 students stayed tuned in from start to finish.
Structure for Success
Every good speech needs a plan. At a Scarborough festival, my structured story took over 500 guests on a journey—clear from start to end.
7. Passion That Inspires Action
Let Passion Shine Through
Passion energizes the room. At a Perth community festival, my excitement for local stories drew 720 people in closer with every word.
Inspire Change
Powerful speeches move people. At a Cottesloe charity night, my message prompted 210 attendees to step up and support the cause.
Be Genuine
Audiences can feel when passion is real. At a Leederville event, my love for Perth’s vibrant community left a lasting impression on 100 locals.
Fuel the Energy
At long events like marathons, sustained passion keeps momentum. I kept 620 runners upbeat and motivated with a blend of storytelling and cheers at a Burswood race.
Innovative Business Solutions for Event Engagement
Incorporating innovative business solutions into public speaking—like interactive segments, custom audience insights, or real-time feedback—can take your Perth event from good to unforgettable. These tools complement the speaker’s natural talent, creating more connection and stronger engagement across diverse event formats.
Conclusion
The traits of a truly effective public speaker—clarity, confidence, charisma, adaptability, empathy, preparation, and passion—bring events to life. Whether it’s a corporate seminar, community festival, or a personal celebration, these attributes can turn an ordinary moment into a highlight people remember.
As someone who brings these qualities to every stage in Perth, I believe every event deserves to pop. Ready to make yours unforgettable? Let’s make it happen.