When some people talk about “public speaking,” they may have in mind an image of someone standing at a lectern in a conference room.

In fact, that is only the case in a minority of situations. In general, the vast majority of professional public speaking takes place in boardrooms when addressing colleagues, clients, or vendors. That’s when you’ll typically need your cohesive and persuasive speaking skills.

Here are some important tips to help you do it.

1. Don’t monopolize “the floor.”

There is a BIG difference between giving a lecture and communicating information in a meeting. Avoid trying to dominate the session and talk more than others in terms of quantity. People respond best when they believe the speaker is regularly listening and digesting what is being said, so pause regularly, listen and LET OTHERS TALK TOO!

2. Refer to what others have previously said when you are speaking.

No need to be obsequious and say things like “thanks for this great contribution“. However, simply ignoring what someone has said and then launching into your own ‘bit’ can be a mistake. A simple “as XYZ said a few minutes ago” can be very effective. It shows that you are listening and that you value other people’s contributions as a team.

3. Keep what you have to say short and succinct.

Verbosity is rarely admirable in public speaking. However, don’t go too far and be too macho in your conciseness to the point that no one has any idea what you mean.

4. Avoid technical jargon, if possible.

The only exception might be if you are sure that everyone present will understand you and have the same technical background.

5. Be confident.

Little undermines the goals of public speaking faster than the constant use of apologies and disclaimers from the “I’m probably wrong but I think” gold “Sorry in advance if I have misunderstood.” Varieties. You just sow doubt in others around the table as to your capabilities. Of course, if you’re wrong, admit it and openly acknowledge it.

You may be able to gain the public’s trust when you speak by training through a martial arts class or the like.

6. Remember, you are speaking even when you are silent.

It’s all about body language, which others will read even if you are silent.

So stay alert and show interest in the proceedings, even at stages where you might not be. Examples: Sitting there angrily texting or staring out the window while your colleague is talking isn’t likely to help you get an open-minded reception when it’s your turn.

7. Make sure your speech has a point.

Even if you only talk for a minute or two or just ask a few questions, you should have a purpose and structure in mind for what you are about to say.

What are called “stream of consciousness brain dumps” are very ineffective in convincing people. Think quickly, but make sure that when you speak you are conveying a clear message with conviction, and share your reasoning behind it.

8. Speak from your eyes.

This simply means that you should, for the most part, try to maintain a degree of eye contact when speaking in a meeting. Looking down at your shoes or reading the notes verbatim is taken as a sign of uncertainty and insecurity. If you need to refer to notes for points of detail, that’s fine, but keep it short.

9. Network controversial issues in advance.

In general, people do not like surprises and controversies that arise unexpectedly in meetings. The result could be that your targets get lost in arguments, confrontations, and recriminations.

If possible, make sure you’ve run through the principles of anything you’re planning to say that’s controversial, beyond key stakeholder attendees ahead of time to gain their buy-in and support.

10. Be positive.

Even if your message has to contain bad news, try to end with a positive conclusion on the way forward.

As a general rule, people are always more convinced and supportive of something that is either good news or offers hope at the end of bad news. They will respond better if you are seen to have a steady pair of hands on the wheel and a constructive view as to the way forward rather than just ending up on a “how are they you Are you going to fix this?” note!