Public speaking lessons from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Each year, we remember the legacy of a man who led the Civil Rights Movement using the power of words—Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

His “I Have a Dream” speech is ranked as one of the most change provoking speeches of the twentieth century. King’s ability to shift the hearts and minds of people by using effective dialogue is a testament to the profound impact public speaking can have on an audience.

Powerful delivery is essential for the successful conveyance of any idea, product or service. No matter if it’s for a conference, presentation or broadcast interview, here are four guidelines to follow before setting onto any podium.

1. Positivity

Positive language is powerful because it can invoke a feeling of inspiration from your audience. A positive message gives your audience the promise of a better future.

In “I Have a Dream,” King used positivity to motivate change:

But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. And so,we’ve come to cash this check, a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.

2. Connection