When you think about your work as a real estate professional, you probably picture open houses, writing contracts, and guiding consumers through transactions. Standing at a podium with a microphone and speaking to a crowd of people isn't usually what comes to mind, but public speaking is a bonus skill that can pay off in ways you might not expect.

Even if you’re not regularly delivering keynote addresses, becoming more comfortable and confident with speaking in front of others can open doors for your career, expand your network, and strengthen your presence within your community. Let’s break down why public speaking is worth your time and how you can polish this skill.

Being comfortable speaking in public can benefit you in more ways than one.

• Leadership Opportunities: If you ever see yourself leading a team, getting involved with your local association, or becoming more active with Alabama REALTORS®,  public speaking is essential. The ability to communicate clearly and with poise helps you stand out as the type of leader others trust and want to follow.
• Stronger Consumer Connections: Every real estate professional knows that trust is the foundation of success in the industry. Whether you’re speaking at a real estate seminar, explaining the process to a nervous first-time buyer, or introducing yourself at a networking event, strong communication builds public confidence. The more polished you are as a speaker, the easier it becomes for consumers to feel at ease and see you as a knowledgeable guide.
• Community Engagement: Many real estate professionals are deeply involved in their local communities, whether through volunteering, serving on nonprofit boards, or participating in neighborhood events. Public speaking skills allow you to step into those spaces with conviction, whether you’re making a presentation at a community meeting or simply introducing yourself to a new group.

The good news is that like most skills, public speaking gets easier with practice. Here are some approachable strategies to refine your abilities:

1. Start Small. You don’t need to jump into a 200-person conference right away. Begin by practicing in low-pressure settings like offering to give a short market update at a team meeting, or speak up during community events. These smaller moments are the perfect training ground.
2. Practice Out Loud. It’s one thing to prepare your talking points in your head, but another to say them out loud. Rehearse your remarks in front of a mirror or record yourself on your phone. You’ll pick up on filler words, pacing issues, and body language habits you didn’t notice before.
3. Know Your Audience. The way you present information to a room full of empty nesters looking to downsize will be different from how you’d address fellow real estate professionals. Tailor your tone, examples, and level of detail to meet the needs of your audience.
4. Simplify Your Message. Consumers appreciate clarity, especially in real estate, where the terminology can feel overwhelming. Focus on the key points you want to get across and avoid overloading your audience with jargon. Simple, clear messages are easier to deliver and more memorable.
5. Embrace Storytelling. Statistics have their place in real estate, but people truly connect with stories. Share short, relevant anecdotes from your experiences bring your message to life. Stories make your presentation relatable and help your audience see themselves in the journey.
6. Manage Your Body Language. Nonverbal communication is just as powerful as your words. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and use hand gestures naturally. These cues signal confidence and help keep your audience engaged.
7. Control the Pace. It’s easy to rush when nerves kick in, but slowing down makes you sound more confident and allows your audience to absorb what you’re saying. Pauses are powerful too, so don’t be afraid to use them.
8. Join a Group or Class. Consider signing up for a communication workshop or taking a public speaking course. These environments are supportive and provide regular opportunities to practice and receive feedback from others who are also learning.
9. Focus on Growth, Not Perfection. Even the most seasoned speakers stumble over words occasionally. Don’t aim to be flawless — aim to connect. Each speaking opportunity is a chance to learn and improve.
10. Seek Feedback. After giving a presentation, ask a trusted peer for honest feedback. Sometimes others notice things we miss, and small adjustments can make a big difference.

The more you step into speaking opportunities, the more natural it becomes. You may even find yourself enjoying it. Many real estate professionals discover that public speaking strengthens their professional image and personal confidence.

Real estate is already a relationship-driven career, and public speaking is simply an extension of that. Communicating clearly, connecting authentically, and positioning yourself as a leader in both transactions and your community can boost your reputation, confidence, and career.