What should speakers focus on to enhance their credibility?

Focusing on being knowledgeable and ethical significantly enhances a speaker's credibility. Knowledge manifests as an in-depth understanding of the topic being discussed, which is crucial for convincing the audience of the speaker's authority and expertise. When speakers demonstrate a thorough grasp of their subject, they instill confidence in their audience, increasing the likelihood that listeners will accept the ideas presented.

Ethical considerations also play a vital role in establishing credibility. Speakers who exhibit integrity and honesty help foster trust with their audience. Being ethical means presenting information accurately and responsibly, acknowledging sources, and avoiding misleading data. This commitment to ethical standards not only enhances a speaker's reputation but also engages the audience more deeply.

In contrast, while humor and entertainment can captivate an audience, they do not inherently establish credibility. Large gestures and movements may enhance delivery but do not guarantee that the speaker is viewed as reliable or knowledgeable. Thus, prioritizing knowledge and ethical behavior is fundamental in building and maintaining a credible public speaking presence.