What is one characteristic of successful public speakers?

Successful public speakers are characterized by their ability to engage and connect with the audience. This connection is crucial in delivering a message effectively, as it fosters a sense of rapport and keeps the audience attentive and invested in the presentation. Engaging the audience can include using storytelling, asking questions, or incorporating humor, all of which help to create an interactive experience. When a speaker engages with their audience, they not only communicate information but also evoke emotions and responses that enhance the overall impact of their message.

Conversely, the other characteristics listed tend to hinder effective communication. Speaking without preparation can lead to a disorganized message, avoiding eye contact can create a distance between the speaker and the audience, and reading directly from notes may prevent the speaker from establishing a genuine connection or conveying confidence. Each of these alternative approaches can lessen the effectiveness of a presentation, highlighting why engagement is a key trait of successful public speakers.