Tricia Brouk helps high-performing professionals transform into industry thought leaders through the power of authentic storytelling. With her experience as an award-winning director, producer, sought after speaker, and mentor to countless thought-leaders, Tricia has put thousands of speakers onto big stages globally.
In the world of speaking, your credibility is your currency. It sets you apart, earns trust, and keeps your audience coming back for more. As someone who has put thousands of speakers on big stages around the globe, I can tell you that credibility isn't just important—it's essential. Let's dive into why credibility reigns supreme and how you can build it authentically.
The power of authentic credibility
If you want to become a highly sought-after speaker and thought leader, own the full expression of who you are unapologetically. In my years of experience as an award-winning director, author, producer, and speaker mentor, I've found nothing more powerful than showing up as your genuine self and building real relationships with those around you. Your reputation and credibility are among your most valuable assets, and they're built on a foundation of authenticity and consistency. And when you own your unique point of view, you can let go of caring what people will think about you. That’s not easy, but it’s liberating.
When you speak from a place of true expertise and passion, your audience can feel it. They're not just hearing your words; they're connecting with your experiences, your insights, and your unique perspective. This is what makes you memorable and sets you apart as an influential voice. And detaching from what people think, while also serving at the highest level, will propel you into being that highly sought-after speaker and thought leader.
What is credibility?
Before we discuss creating credibility, let’s define it. Credibility is having the quality of being believed. When you speak, whether in front of a huge audience on a big stage or at an intimate gathering of leaders around a table, your credibility makes people lean in and listen. It's what transforms your words from mere information into influential ideas.
Building your credibility
So, what does it mean to be truly credible as a speaker? First and foremost, it's about speaking from your unique experience, from your POV (point of view). When choosing your speaking topics, opt for ideas you have direct experience with, not simply things you are passionate about. For example, I could watch food scientists create molecular gastronomy meals on the Food Network all day long. I find it fascinating and thrilling. But that doesn't mean I can talk about it with any real expertise.
Now, I want to bust a myth: being credible is not limited to having a Ph.D. or a published book (though those certainly don't hurt). There are a lot of speakers and thought leaders who have advanced degrees. And many who don't. In addition to education, credibility can also come from lived experience. Your story. Your unique perspective. Your journey. These are all important when it comes to being a credible expert.
Showing up with credibility
In addition to your experience, credibility comes from how you present yourself and your ideas. Here's what I mean:
Preparation is key
Be poised, rehearsed, and dressed for the part. This doesn't mean you need to wear a three-piece suit every time you take the stage, but you should put thought and care into your appearance. You should also put your best foot forward with event organizers with everything from a polished one sheet to thoughtful questions and communication – ensuring everyone has a successful event.
Precision matters
Use accurate data to back up your findings. Be meticulous with dates and facts. In the words of Loretta Malandro, avoid "credibility reducers" – words and phrases that decrease the positive perceptions others have of you. Eliminate filler words like "um," "so," and "like," or phrases such as "Do ya know what I mean." These can instantly diminish the power of your message, no matter how substantive it is.
Structure your talk with intention
Understand your throughline, the north star or the heartbeat of your big talk. Rely on the story arc and how to take your audience on a journey. This is where true expertise and mastery come into play.
Embracing your voice
Building credibility isn't an overnight process. It results from consistent effort, continuous curiosity, and unwavering authenticity. And when you commit to this process, you become more than just another speaker. You become a highly sought-after influential voice and thought leader, someone people turn to for insights and inspiration.
Your story, expertise, unique perspective, and voice matter. And by building your credibility, you ensure your message reaches those who need to hear it most.
Big stages are waiting for you. Begin building your credibility so you can take them!
Tricia Brouk, Founder of The Big Talk Academy
Tricia Brouk helps high-performing professionals transform into industry thought leaders through the power of authentic storytelling. With her experience as an award-winning director, producer, sought after speaker, and mentor to countless thought-leaders, Tricia has put thousands of speakers onto big stages globally. She produced TEDxLincolnSquare in New York City and is the founder of The Big Talk Academy. Tricia’s book, The Influential Voice: Saying What You Mean for Lasting Legacy, was a 1 New Release on Amazon in December 2020. Big Stages, the documentary featuring her work with speakers premiered at the Chelsea Film Festival in October of 2023 and her most recent love is the new publishing house she founded, The Big Talk Press.
