Are You Making This Costly Public Speaking Mistake?

by Craig Valentine  - September 10, 2026

One of the biggest mistakes speakers make is giving away information too quickly.

Sometimes it’s better to make your audience wait for it.

Why?

Because anticipation creates a desire for them to want to know what’s coming next.

Instead of simply telling your audience what’s coming, tease them before you tell them.

That’s the focus of today’s Speaking Secret. Watch the lesson.

Think about your own presentation.

Where are you giving away an answer immediately that you could make your audience wait a little longer to receive?

Open a gap.

Create some curiosity.

Then close the gap.

When your audience is wondering what’s coming next, they’re much more likely to stay with you. When they’re wondering, you’re connecting.

Keep speaking up!

Craig

About the Author

As a motivational speaker I've been fortunate to have spoken in over 20 countries, and back in 1999 Toastmasters International awarded me the World Champion of Public Speaking.

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