The Best Executive speaking coaches, such as John Bates and Executive Speaking Success, play a vital role in helping leaders communicate effectively. Whether it’s executive coaching, leadership coaching, public speaking coaching, or communication coaching their techniques and insights can transform even a nervous speaker into a confident, effective communicator and leader. In this blog, we’ll explore the key roles and responsibilities of an executive speaking coach.
Understanding the Role of an Executive Speaking Coach
“It’s hard to see the picture when you’re in the frame!”
An executive speaking coach isn’t just someone who helps you “present better.” They’re your partner in becoming the kind of communicator who commands attention and inspires action.
They get the high stakes you face—whether you’re leading a boardroom conversation, speaking to investors, or stepping onto a big stage. A great coach tailors their approach to fit your leadership style, your goals, and your real-world challenges.
From harnessing the power of storytelling to refining your delivery, they draw on techniques from neuroscience and performance to ensure your message lands, sticks, and influences people to take action.
Assessing Your Current Speaking Skills
The journey begins with a clear-eyed look at where you are today.
Your coach will often record one of your presentations and review it with you. Together, you’ll uncover hidden habits, fine-tune your tone, and explore what your body language might be saying, without you realizing it. This alone is transformational for leaders at all levels.
They may also gather feedback from your colleagues or team to paint a full 360-degree picture. That way, your communication transformation starts with real insight—and a roadmap that’s grounded in reality.
Developing a Personalized Coaching Plan
After understanding your needs, they develop a personalized coaching plan that focuses on your specific goals.
Although there are principles that remain constant, cookie-cutter advice is not part of the plan. Once your coach understands your goals and context, they’ll craft a personalized plan to elevate your communication.
You might have an urgent presentation coming up. Or you might be looking to show up more powerfully in everyday meetings, or both. The plan will strike a balance between short-term wins and long-term growth.
It’s practical. It’s actionable. And it works with your calendar, not against it. Your coach ensures every session builds on the last, so your confidence and competence grow together.
Techniques and Principles for Effective Speaking
Here’s where the tools come in. Expect to learn practical techniques, such as breath control to manage nerves and voice projection, as well as storytelling frameworks and insights from neurobiology that enable you to capture your audience and hold their attention.
You’ll also learn how to use visual aids effectively—not as a crutch, but as a way to enhance your message and keep your audience engaged.
Your coach helps you develop the kind of presence and message that resonates, whether you’re speaking in a team meeting or on the main stage.
Providing Constructive Feedback
Your coach will offer direct, supportive feedback—always with your growth in mind. As the Drill Instructor for Your Greatness, it is my job to make sure you are set up for success.
You’ll hear what’s working, and you’ll get clear direction on what can improve. There’s no guesswork. Just actionable input that builds your skills—and your confidence.
Often, video review is part of the process. Watching your own progress isn’t just helpful—it’s motivating. And I will make it fun, too. You’ll see the shift happen, and that fuels even more momentum.
Preparing for Specific Speaking Engagements
Got a big event coming up? As your coach, I will help you knock it out of the park, just like the many, many clients before you. Even those who didn’t think they could possibly knock it out of the park!
A great coach will partner with you on everything from your message and content structure to your delivery style. You’ll rehearse, refine, and run through real-time scenarios until you’re ready to deliver with authority.
And when those pre-presentation nerves hit, we’ve got you covered with mental strategies and grounding techniques that bring calm, clarity, and confidence.
In Conclusion
Hiring an executive speaking coach helps you unlock your full potential—not just as a speaker, but as a leader and a human being.
Whether you’re gearing up for a high-stakes pitch, leading a change initiative, or want to bring more power to your leadership presence, a coach gives you the tools and support to rise to the occasion—and we will make sure you own the moment.
