Women make exceptional public speakers. I’ve watched countless female presenters command rooms, captivate ballrooms, and deliver talks that stay with you long after the applause fades. Some are warm and witty, others bold and sharp—but all bring something powerful to the stage.
And yet, it’s telling that we still feel the need to say this out loud. Women are often judged more harshly than men when they step up to a podium or appear on live TV. Public speaking is already challenging—layering extra scrutiny on top of that is simply unfair.
Take historian and broadcaster Mary Beard, for example. Her work is celebrated worldwide, yet she receives criticism for her appearance in ways male historians rarely do. This double standard is real, and it affects how women experience the stage.
So while these tips apply to all speakers, they’re especially relevant for the women who show up, speak up, and hold their ground in front of distracted, demanding audiences.
Here are three ways to become the most memorable speaker in the room—no matter how many phones light up in the audience.
It’s Not Personal: Your Audience Is Distracted by Default
We live in a world of constant notifications. Those little glass rectangles in everyone’s hands buzz, flash, and demand attention. Even the most engaged audience member will glance down at their phone at some point.
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From conversations with speakers of all genders, I’ve noticed a pattern: men often react with humor or playful confrontation when someone checks their phone. Women, however, tend to interpret it as a sign they’re not being liked or respected.
But here’s the truth: their distraction has nothing to do with you. Research from the American Psychological Association shows that attention spans are shrinking across the board. It’s not personal—it’s cultural.
Takeaway: Expect distraction. Prepare for it. Decide in advance whether you’ll ignore it or address it with humor. But never let it shake your confidence.
Master Your Body Language—It Speaks Louder Than Your Words
Stress affects speakers differently. Men often pace, speed up, or gesture erratically. Women, according to communication expert Dave Yewman, tend to shrink—folding their arms, minimizing movement, or taking up less space.
Body language matters more than most people realize. Studies show that over 50% of communication is non‑verbal. Your posture, gestures, and presence shape how your message is received.
One simple technique: hold something. A microphone, a clicker, or even a pen can prevent you from folding inward. Open gestures, grounded stances, and intentional movement project confidence—even before you feel it.
For deeper training, consider structured coaching such as advanced public speaking programs that help you refine your strengths and overcome stage habits.
Takeaway: Fake it till you make it. Open body language and power poses don’t just look confident—they actually make you feel braver.
Drop the Qualifiers: Speak With Clarity and Authority
One of the biggest differences between male and female speakers comes down to language. Women are often socialized to soften their statements with qualifiers like “I think,” “I believe,” or “I assume.” Men tend to make direct statements—even when they’re not entirely sure.
According to Forbes, weak language can undermine your authority and dilute your message. Even removing one small word—like “just”—can dramatically change how your audience perceives you.
Qualifiers have their place. They can soften a joke or add nuance. But too many of them weaken your delivery and make your audience work harder to follow your point.
Takeaway: Say it with confidence. Your message deserves clarity, not caveats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I keep an audience engaged when they’re distracted?
Use strong openings, vary your pacing, and incorporate storytelling. Movement and vocal contrast help recapture drifting attention.
How do I stop feeling nervous on stage?
Practice power poses, rehearse out loud, and focus on your message rather than yourself. Confidence grows with repetition.
What should I do if someone keeps looking at their phone?
Don’t take it personally. Either ignore it or address it lightly with humor—but never let it derail your delivery.
How can women project more authority when speaking?
Reduce qualifiers, use open body language, and speak in clear, declarative sentences. Authority comes from clarity, not volume.
Is body language really more important than content?
Both matter, but non‑verbal cues strongly influence how your message is received. Confident posture enhances credibility.
About the Author
Hisham Wyne is an internationally recognized MC, broadcaster, presenter and moderator who helps the world’s best-known brands create memorable occasions. He regularly hosts conferences, panel sessions, gala dinners and award ceremonies for some of the world’s best brands. With 150+ events under his belt, Hisham is the professional speaker that brands and agencies turn to when wanting to interview, engage and entertain government VVIPs and Hollywood celebrities.
