How to Speak Before Hundreds of Co Workers With Confidence

Co-authored by Heather Morrison

Last Updated: September 20, 2025

Are you having trouble being confident while presenting to hundreds of co-workers and upper management? This article can help!

Steps

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You cannot speak with as much confidence before hundreds of co-workers without permission and on the spur of the moment as you can if you have been invited to do so and are not prepared for it.
Ensure you are clear about the date and what has been requested of you (ask many questions in the beginning) to prepare. You are sure to be embarrassed if you stand up to speak to hundreds of co-workers on the wrong day.

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It does not hurt to send an email or make a phone call a week or two before the date to make sure that plans have not changed.
Realize that "your part" is vital and will be well received. See yourself at the event, and hear yourself speaking. See the audience respond. Know that numbers and personnel rank have no meaning when you come before them with purpose and confidence!^{[1]
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Heather Morrison
Public Speaking Coach and Broadcaster

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It helps when most of your text is memorized, but make sure that you have a clear and easy-to-navigate script in your hands on the day of the event.
Get a good night's sleep. Dress according to the event; well-groomed (personal hygiene) and conservative dress is always stylish and in order. Your presentation is your credibility and lasting impression! Be on time and mingle with people if there is an opportunity; this will help with your nerves and cause you to identify with the audience warmly.^{[2]
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Expert Source

Heather Morrison
Public Speaking Coach and Broadcaster

Expert Interview}
Give your speech with confidence. This is your moment!

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Tips

Know that you "own" your confidence, and do not give it away to changes in the program, those in the audience, other speakers, or presenters.

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Be aware of where you are on the program so that you can take a sip of water to moisten your mouth just before you are on.

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Decide to have fun and let this contagious attitude break through.

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Warnings

These steps are unsuitable for acceptance speeches, graduation speeches, wedding speeches, presentations to less than 199 people, or presentations to those you study with rather than work with.

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