Sora, an adult student who worked with me in one of my Tailored Coaching Programmes, set out to strengthen her public speaking skills with the goal of feeling natural in front of an audience and managing her nerves with unshakeable confidence. Her journey is a powerful example of how dedication, practice, and expert guidance can lead to transformative results.
Overcoming Language and Cultural Barriers
When Sora began, she faced the challenge of speaking fluently in English while thinking in her mother tongue. Often, she would pause to translate her thoughts, which impacted the flow of conversation. She was also conscious of speaking quickly, worried it might affect clarity.
“I feel like I’m constantly translating my thoughts, but I’m learning that slowing down actually gives me more confidence and clarity. When I take a breath before speaking, I feel like I have control over what I’m saying, and it feels natural.”
Excerpt from Sora’s Learning Summary
Through coaching, Sora learned to pause and breathe before speaking, allowing her to gather her thoughts and communicate more clearly. By using her breath more efficiently (from the lower belly, not the chest), she developed a grounded, confident voice.
Mastering Presentations with Presence
Sora’s breakthrough came when she delivered a presentation at work. She used the techniques she’d practiced, learning to channel her nerves into positive energy and focusing on connecting with the audience rather than relying on a rigid script.
“I had a moment of fear before the presentation, but I realised I was focusing too much on the fear. Once I focused on connecting with my audience, I felt a shift. The words came naturally. It was like I was telling a story to a friend.”
Excerpt from Sora’s Learning Summary
Together, we shifted Sora’s mindset from impressing others to authentically connecting with them — a change that made her presentations more engaging and impactful.
Communicating Online and In Person
A significant part of Sora’s growth involved adapting her communication style across different settings. We worked on improvisation games to help her think on her feet and stay calm in unexpected situations. We also focused on how to communicate effectively on Zoom, where eye contact and camera positioning made a huge difference.
“The improvisation games were so helpful — they taught me how to stay calm when something unexpected happens. And learning how to communicate on Zoom was a game-changer; I didn’t realise how much difference eye contact and putting the camera at eye level makes!”
Excerpt from Sora’s Learning Summary
Sora also practised adjusting her body language when presenting in physical spaces, allowing her to feel confident in both virtual and in-person settings.
Communicating with Senior Leaders
Sora’s confidence grew further when she learned to communicate effectively with senior leaders. She shifted her focus from impressing them with facts to connecting with their vision and thinking long-term.
“When talking to senior leaders, I used to feel intimidated. Now I see that it’s not about impressing them with facts, but showing them that I understand the bigger picture. It’s about making them feel like we’re on the same team.”
Excerpt from Sora’s Learning Summary
Through coaching, Sora gained the confidence to present her ideas clearly and build trust with leaders. She learned that true confidence comes from preparation, self-awareness, and being authentic.
A Journey of Confidence and Growth
One of Sora’s biggest breakthroughs was developing inner confidence. She embraced the mantra, “I am a great public speaker,” which helped her internalise her progress and shift her mindset.
“I’ve stopped focusing on what could go wrong and started focusing on what I can do. Every presentation is a chance to grow, and I feel like I’m getting better each time.”
Excerpt from Sora’s Learning Summary
We worked on using body language, voice, and status to help her present with calm authority. Sora also used mirroring techniques to build rapport, projecting a confident energy that resonated with both colleagues and senior leaders.
Looking Ahead
Today, Sora speaks with clarity, warmth, and authority. She is confident in addressing senior leaders, presenting to her team, and engaging audiences online.
Her journey from nervousness to unshakeable confidence is a testament to the power of practice, the right tools, and personalised coaching. Sora now communicates with ease across all platforms — in meetings, online, and on stage — and her confidence continues to grow with every opportunity.
Ready to Transform Your Communication Confidence?
If Sora’s journey resonates with you, imagine what’s possible for your own growth! Whether you want to strengthen your public speaking or feel at ease in your own unique style of expression, my Tailored Coaching Programmes are designed to meet you where you are — especially if you have a deadline, like an upcoming speech, or need to fast-track your skills.
Every client receives personalised coaching, practical tools, and a clear summary of their learning journey — so you can build confidence that lasts.
Let’s Talk About Your Goals
We begin with a free 15-minute phone consultation to:
- Discuss your public speaking challenges and ambitions
- Explore whether this coaching is the right fit for you
- Answer questions about the process, pricing, and next steps
📞 Call me on 020 8064 0549 or book your consultation here
