9 Common Myths About Public Speaking Coaching
Ed Darling
4 min read
Does the thought of standing in front of an audience make your heart race?
Have you ever walked away from a presentation wishing you’d done better?
You’re not alone.
After a nerve-wracking speaking experience, it’s easy to doubt your abilities. Maybe you’ve thought about improving your communication skills but hesitated, wondering, “What does working with a speaking coach actually involve?”
Let’s clear up some myths and explain what it really means to work with a public speaking coach.
1. “Only Paid Speakers Work with a Public Speaking Coach”
You don’t need “TED Speaker” in your bio to work with a coach (though many do!).
Most of my clients aren’t professional speakers—they’re:
- Business owners inspiring their teams and leading with confidence.
- Mid-level professionals sharpening their communication skills.
- Executives preparing for high-stakes presentations.
Public speaking training isn’t just for the stage. It’s for anyone who wants to communicate clearly, confidently, and effectively—whether in meetings, pitches, or presentations.
2. “You Need Natural Talent to Become a Good Speaker”
Public speaking isn’t an innate gift—it’s a skill anyone can learn.
My clients include introverts, extroverts, beginners, and seasoned professionals. What they all share is a willingness to learn, improve, and step outside their comfort zones.
With consistent practice and guidance, even the most anxious speaker can become confident—so much so that others will assume you were always a natural!
3. “Coaching Won’t Work If I Have Public Speaking Anxiety”
If speaking to an audience makes you feel sick with nerves, it’s easy to think nothing will help. I know how that feels—I’ve been there.
I tried everything from CBT to hypnotherapy. What finally worked? Consistent training. Coaching provides proven techniques to manage nerves, focus, and build lasting confidence.
With a coach in your corner, you’ll feel prepared and supported for every speaking opportunity. Over time, success breeds more confidence, transforming how you think and feel about public speaking.
4. “Working with a Speech Coach Is Expensive”
Public speaking coaching is an investment, but it’s one that pays off for a lifetime.
Programmes range from £500 for a 1-Day Masterclass to £2,000+ for comprehensive coaching.
The benefits go beyond finances—imagine no more sleepless nights worrying about presentations, just confidence and control in high-pressure situations.
In a world full of poor communicators, investing in your speaking skills sets you apart.
5. “It Takes Too Much Time”
My most dedicated clients commit just 1–2 hours a week to their training.
With a coach, you’ll fast-track your progress using a proven system. Training is designed to be flexible and high-impact, fitting around even the busiest schedules.
The best part?
You’ll see results immediately, often leaving your very first session feeling more confident.
6. “I’ll Have To Do Weird Acting Techniques”
Public speaking isn’t about acting; it’s about communicating authentically.
You’ll learn skills like:
- Using gestures to emphasise key points.
- Controlling your vocal tone and pace for impact.
- Commanding presence in live and virtual settings.
The goal is to make you a confident, professional presenter — not a performer. You won’t be reciting monologues, but you’ll be expanding your comfort-zone, and mastering skills that set you apart in the corporate world.
7. “Only Marketing or Sales Roles Need Public Speaking Coaching”
The truth is, strong communication is essential in every profession.
Whether you’re an engineer presenting data, a project manager pitching ideas, or a leader inspiring a team, public speaking skills make you more visible, valuable, and authoritative.
8. “If I Know My Topic, I Don’t Need Coaching”
Knowing your subject is only half the battle. The challenge is delivering it in a way that resonates with your audience—especially under pressure.
Even experienced speakers benefit from coaching. Structuring your message, incorporating stories, and rehearsing can elevate a good presentation to greatness.
Wherever you are in your public speaking journey, coaching will help you excel.
9. “Coaching Is Only for Delivering Big Keynotes”
If you do ever land a keynote, do yourself a favour — find a coach, they’ll be invaluable!
But most clients work with me to prepare for:
- Podcasts & speaking on camera.
- Panels discussions and fireside chats.
- Pitches and team presentations.
- Speaking up at work and stepping into leadership roles.
Each scenario requires tailored skills. Coaching ensures you’re ready for any opportunity.
Final Thoughts on Public Speaking Coaching.
Public speaking coaching isn’t just about overcoming fear; it’s about mastering a skill that can transform your career, personal brand, and business.
The hardest part?
Taking the first step.
Don’t let any of these myths hold you back — if you’re ready to step up as a confident speaker, it’s time we had a chat! 🙂
To your speaking success,
Ed
Whenever you're ready, here's 3 ways I can help you:
1. Charisma Club: My flagship 3-month coaching programme for professionals. Follow a proven system to build confidence, find your charisma, and step-up as a speaker in your niche.
2. Speak & Present: Looking for a quick way to supercharge your public speaking skills? Face your fears, develop new skills, and deliver a live speech in our 1-Day Masterclass for professionals.
3. Team Training: Bring confident communication to your team. I’ll help them to speak with clarity, enhance their leadership skills, and present with confidence. Bookable as half/full day training. Ideal for teams and senior leaders.