Certain words get brandished around quite loosely in public speaking domains, and many so-called experts often (in my experience) pinpoint confidence and authority as the two key factors that create an excellent public speaker. While I don't wholly agree with these terms as being the be-all and end-all (for example, what about clear, free, and expressive speech), I want to discuss them, their meaning, and how that can translate to a better understanding of your own reference and personal growth as a public speaker.

Confidence and authority are different concepts that can impact an individual's ability to influence others in varying ways. While confidence "might" appear more internal and seen like a personal trait, authority "seems" to be granted by external factors such as position or knowledge. I say "might and appears" as the appearance of confidence can be deceptive, and the presence of authority can also be fabricated.

What I mean is…

A person might well indeed have confidence but not appear to have. Then again, someone who falls apart internally can give the impression they are the most confident in the room. Same with authority. One might talk in a manner of authority and knowledge on a subject but be clueless about it. Also, they could be the most knowledgeable person but unable to articulate that knowledge before an audience.

WHAT A CONUNDRUM!

Aristotle: One of the greatest known speakers in history.

Lived at a time when public speaking was insistent on not only confidence and authority but vocal strength, clarity, and, of course, well-crafted rhetoric.

So confidence, real or not, can give the appearance of authority. And authority, real or not, has no bearing on a person's appearance of or feelings of confidence. But whilst it's important to note that confidence and authority are not mutually exclusive. An individual can possess both confidence and authority, and they often complement each other in achieving success and influence.

However, it is also possible for someone to have one without the other, such as a confident but inexperienced individual or an authoritative but insecure individual.

Now, if you're banging your head against a wall, for clarity, below are definitions (according to a web search) of both confidence and authority.

Confidence (in public speaking):

Feeling sure of oneself and one's abilities as a speaker
Speaking with conviction and passion
Being comfortable and natural on stage
Maintaining eye contact with the audience
Using clear and concise language
Displaying positive body language, such as standing tall and using appropriate gestures

Authority (in public speaking):

Demonstrating expertise in the topic being discussed
Using relevant and accurate statistics, facts, and examples to support one's arguments
Providing credible sources to back up one's claims
Being well-prepared and organized in the presentation of material
Showing confidence and assertiveness in handling questions or challenges from the audience
Demonstrating a solid understanding of the audience's needs and interests

Fascinating right?

Let’s dive a little deeper…

Confidence refers to an individual's belief in their abilities, knowledge, and skills. It is a subjective feeling of self-assurance and conviction that one can perform a task or make a decision effectively. Confidence is often built through experience, practice, and positive feedback.

On the other hand, authority refers to the power or right to give orders, make decisions, and enforce obedience. It is often bestowed upon individuals by an organisation, institution, or society based on their position, knowledge, or expertise. Authority is objective, as it is determined by external factors rather than personal beliefs or feelings.

In simpler terms, confidence is a personal trait that comes from within, while authority is largely a social construct most often granted by others. While both confidence and authority can be effective in influencing others, they are different approaches to achieving that influence. Confident individuals may use their self-assurance to persuade others, while authoritative individuals may use their position or knowledge to command respect and compliance.

Former President Barack Obama

A modern-day Master of Public speaking. Able to influence and lead through his seemingly innate confidence and authority. But whenther or not anyone is a natural talent, further education and the correct training and practice is essential for true mastery.

So, to summarise...

While confidence and authority are different concepts, they can work together to create a powerful, compelling and effective public speaker. Someone who is confident in their abilities as a speaker but also demonstrates authority and expertise on the subject matter is likely to be seen as more credible and persuasive by their audience.

And don't forget that confidence and the appearance of confidence can be learned, practiced, and achieved, sometimes easily but often with more conscious effort. But since it is so personal, all I can do is offer the tools that helped me ... like the ones in my public speaking mastery course.

While I can't make you an instant expert on any particular subject, I can equip you with tools to help you speak more clearly, calmly, and with greater resonance. These tools can enhance your presence and help you communicate in a way that positively influences your audience, making you appear—and feel—more authoritative. The more you practice and apply these techniques, the more authority and confidence you will naturally project and embody.

Boost Your Confidence, Disable Your Fear, & Speak With Total Ease And Clarity… HERE

CONFIDENCE VS AUTHORITY IN PUBLIC SPEAKING

Don’t waste your breath!