Introduction:

We’ve all been there—sitting at a wedding or business conference in Perth where the speaker just didn’t land the message. Maybe it was hard to hear, maybe it lacked energy, or maybe it just didn’t feel genuine. But when a speaker gets it right, the whole room lights up.

I’m Nathan Baws, a Perth-based speaker with experience from the beaches of Scarborough to the heart of Fremantle. Over the years, I’ve spoken at local fundraisers, weddings, community events, and corporate gatherings. Along the way, I’ve learned that a speaker's delivery can turn an ordinary moment into an extraordinary one.

These seven must-have traits are what define a truly great public speaker, and they’re exactly what will make your next Perth event one to remember.

Quick Highlights

• A great speaker captures attention and keeps it.

• These seven traits apply to events of any size in Perth.

• Nathan Baws uses these skills at every speaking engagement.

• Whether you’re planning a wedding or seminar, these are the qualities to look for.

1. Speak Clearly and Keep It Simple

Make Every Word Count

Clarity is crucial. A skilled speaker ensures everyone in the audience hears and understands every message—whether you’re in a room of 20 or addressing 500 at a Perth festival.

Ditch the Jargon

A great speaker avoids confusing language. I always speak in plain, relatable terms. This keeps audiences of all ages—from school groups to business professionals—engaged and in the loop.

Structure That Flows

A memorable talk follows a clear and thoughtful structure. I always lay out stories like a journey, making sure the audience can follow each step from start to finish.

Practice Makes Polished

Preparation is key. Whether I’m preparing for a quiet Subiaco dinner or a big community day in Joondalup, I rehearse until the delivery feels smooth and natural.

2. Own the Stage with Confidence

Make an Entrance

A confident speaker sets the tone from the first step on stage. Smiling, standing tall, and exuding presence immediately pulls people in.

Handle Surprises Gracefully

Mics fail, noise interrupts, or unexpected questions pop up. I’ve faced all these in Perth venues and learned to roll with it, keep calm, and carry on—keeping the audience relaxed and involved.

Use Body Language Effectively

Great speakers don’t just talk with their voices. Eye contact, open gestures, and calm movements help communicate just as much as words.

Earn the Audience’s Trust

Confidence builds trust. Whether I’m delivering a keynote or a heartfelt toast, a confident tone reassures listeners they’re in good hands.

3. Connect with Charisma

Energise the Room

Charisma is what turns a good speech into a great one. It’s that extra spark that makes a room light up. I always bring energy and enthusiasm, which helps set a positive, inviting tone.

Sprinkle in Humour

A well-timed joke makes everything more enjoyable. A few laughs—especially ones locals can relate to, like a nod to Perth’s love of coffee or footy—create instant connection.

Keep It Local

Adding references to Perth’s culture and lifestyle helps make talks more personal. Whether it’s beaches, suburbs, or local legends, I tie in relatable content that hits home.

Be Authentic

People respond to realness. Whether I’m sharing my own journey or speaking on behalf of a client, I keep it honest and true to me. That connection builds audience rapport quickly.

4. Read and Adapt to the Audience

Feel the Room

Adaptability is one of the most important traits a speaker can have. Some events call for high energy, others for a softer touch. Reading the room lets you know what’s needed.

Customise the Message

I never use a one-size-fits-all speech. I tailor every talk to the audience, whether it’s a corporate event in Claremont or a wedding on Cottesloe Beach.

Engage Everyone

Perth is wonderfully diverse. A great speaker knows how to reach all types—young and old, local and international. I keep everyone involved with inclusive language and engagement tactics.

Adjust in Real-Time

Things change. Weather shifts, crowds grow or shrink, timelines move. I stay flexible and can pivot instantly to suit the environment or audience need.

5. Speak with Empathy

Understand the Audience's Emotions

Empathy allows a speaker to connect on a human level. I try to understand what matters to the people in front of me—and shape my message to align with that.

Share Stories That Resonate

Personal stories are a powerful tool. Talking about my early speaking days in Perth or my journey connecting with diverse audiences often sparks genuine emotional reactions.

Stay Tuned In

I watch my audience carefully. Are they nodding along, confused, or laughing? I use those cues to adjust my speed, tone, and language so I stay in sync with them.

Show You Care

Being empathetic means valuing the people in front of you. I often speak about Perth’s strong community spirit, which instantly helps people feel seen and valued.

6. Be Prepared and Professional

Know the Material

Preparation is the foundation of great public speaking. I study my topic until I know it backwards, so I can focus on delivery and audience interaction on the day.

Understand the Audience

Before each talk, I research the people I’ll be speaking to. Whether it’s local artists at a Northbridge fair or corporate leaders in the CBD, I tailor the content to them.

Rehearse for Consistency

Practice helps you avoid stumbling and keeps energy flowing. I rehearse with focus on pacing, tone, and natural delivery—so it feels effortless when it counts.

Use a Clear Structure

A strong opening, clear middle, and memorable finish ensure the audience stays engaged and leaves with something to remember.

7. Let Passion Power Your Words

Speak with Fire

The best speakers don’t just talk—they inspire. I bring passion to every event, whether I’m cheering on charity runners or addressing business executives. My energy helps boost the room’s spirit.

Motivate Action

A passionate speaker moves people. I’ve watched audiences get inspired to donate, volunteer, or simply reflect more deeply after a heartfelt, energetic talk.

Stay True to Your Values

Authenticity and passion go hand in hand. I speak about things I believe in, which brings credibility and conviction to every word.

Maintain Energy to the End

Even for long events, passion keeps momentum going. Whether I’m on stage for five minutes or 50, I maintain consistent energy that holds attention from start to finish.

Conclusion: Let the Right Speaker Make Your Event Shine

A successful event needs more than just food, music, or decorations—it needs a speaker who can elevate the experience. The seven traits we explored—clarity, confidence, charisma, adaptability, empathy, preparation, and passion—are the building blocks of a speaker who makes a lasting impact.

Whether you're hosting a Perth wedding, leading a corporate retreat, or organising a community celebration, Nathan Baws brings these qualities to every stage. My mission is to make your message land, your crowd feel seen, and your event unforgettable.

FAQs

What makes a public speaker great?
Clarity, confidence, charisma, adaptability, empathy, preparation, and passion all help connect with any audience.

Are these speaker traits important for Perth events?
Absolutely. These skills help create memorable experiences for both small and large crowds across Perth.

How does Nathan Baws bring these attributes to life?
I customise every speech with these traits, ensuring the message fits the mood, audience, and purpose of your Perth event.

Do these traits work for casual events too?
Yes, these public speaking skills shine at any event—from small backyard gatherings to large public functions.

Are these traits useful for outdoor events?
Definitely. Whether it’s windy beaches or open parks, these qualities keep the talk engaging and strong throughout.

Why is empathy crucial for public speaking?
It builds emotional connection with the audience, making the message feel personal and genuine.

How does preparation influence a talk?
It allows for smooth delivery, flexibility, and confidence—no matter the audience or setting.

Do these traits help with interactive segments like Q&A?
Yes. Adaptability and charisma make audience interaction feel natural and lively.