41+ Public Speaking Statistics You Should Know

It’s no secret that public speaking can be a nerve-wracking experience.

But what if you knew that, statistically speaking, you’re actually more likely to succeed than fail?

In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most interesting public speaking statistics out there. So read on to learn more and put your fears in perspective!

Public Speaking Statistics

1. The ideal presentation length for public speaking is 18 minutes.

(INC)

Takeaway: Studies show that the ideal presentation length for a public speaker is 18 minutes. This means that if you’re looking to give a presentation that is both informative and engaging, 18 minutes is the sweet spot. This number is encouraging as it indicates that you don’t have to talk for hours in order to deliver a great presentation. This number is also stated by Ted Talks so they ensure that all their speakers restrict their speaking time to 18 minutes.

2. After a presenter uses humor or approaches the audience or begins speaking off script, attention levels peak.

(Kennesaw State University, Business Wire)

Takeaway: A study conducted by the Kennesaw State University that was experimenting on attention spans using Tobii Glasses found that after a presenter uses humor or approaches the audience or begins speaking off script, attention levels peak. This means that if you’re looking to engage your audience, using humor, being personal, and deviating from your prepared material can be effective methods. This fact is important as it shows that audience members are more likely to pay attention when the speaker is not sticking to a script, created by writing tools. If you’re looking to engage your audience, using humor, being personal, and deviating from your prepared material can be effective methods.

3. The average beginner keynote speaker charges $500-$5000 for a local gig, while a renowned speaker charges $20,000-$50,000 on average for national or international events.

(Harvard Business Review, Vario Productions)

Takeaway: This means that if you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to command a higher fee is an important asset. In order to charge more for your services, you need to be able to demonstrate your value. This can be done by having a strong track record of speaking engagements, or by having a niche audience that is willing to pay more for your expertise. If you’re looking to get into public speaking, you must show that you are worth the investment by having a unique angle on a certain subject.

4. 3 days after a presentation, 60% of the audience can still remember its visual content.

(Presentation Training Institute)

Takeaway: When you’re giving a presentation, it’s important to remember that people will retain more information if you include visual aids. Studies show that 60% of the audience can still remember the visual content of your presentation three days after you give it. This means that if you want people to remember your presentation, you should focus on creating visuals that are memorable and informative.

5. The amount of time it takes to build your first impression is 27 seconds.

(Zoho)

Takeaway: First impressions are important, both in life and in presentations. Studies show that it takes just 27 seconds for someone to form a first impression of you. This means that it’s important to make a good impression from the start. Be confident, be yourself, and be prepared. If you can do these things, you’ll be more likely to make a positive first impression on your audience. Developing a good first impression can really set the tone for your Public Speaking.

6. According to a survey, 25% of your presentation should be allotted to a Q&A session

(Zoho)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Zoho showed that 25% of your presentation should be allotted to a Q&A session. This means that if you’re looking to engage with your audience, setting aside some time for questions is essential. This number is important as it shows that audience members appreciate when they are given the opportunity to ask questions and get clarification on the presentation topic. If you’re not allotting time for questions, you’re missing out on a key opportunity to engage with your audience.

7. Storytelling makes public speaking more effective as it can increase donations or fundraising by 200%

(Science Direct)

Takeaway: Studies show that stories make public speaking more effective as they can bring in twice as many donations. This means that if you’re looking to raise money for a cause, using stories in your presentation can be very beneficial. This number is quite encouraging as it indicates the power of storytelling. If you’re looking to raise money or awareness for a cause, using stories in your public speaking can be very effective.

8. In Public Speaking, 7% of the message comes from words, 36% comes from voice, and 57% comes from nonverbal communication.

(UCLA)

Takeaway: When you’re giving a presentation, it’s important to remember that your words are only a small part of the message you’re conveying. In fact, studies show that your words make up only seven percent of the message. The rest of the message comes from your voice (36%) and nonverbal communication (57%). This means that if you want to be an effective speaker, you need to focus on more than just your words. You also need to pay attention to your voice and body language. These factors are necessary if you want to grasp your audience’s attention. The more invested the audience will be in your presentation or Public Speaking, the more likely they are to remember your message.

9. Emotions and examples in public speaking increase the retention rate of the audience by 65% to 75%.

(Corporate Communication Experts)

Takeaway: If you want your audience to remember your message, it’s important to use emotion and examples in your public speaking. Studies show that using emotion and examples can increase the retention rate by 65% to 75%. This means that if you want people to remember what you’re saying, it’s important to make them feel something. Use stories and examples to illustrate your points and help people understand the importance of your message. When you use emotion and examples, you’re more likely to engage your audience and make a lasting impression.

10. Creating clear and compelling visuals is important for presentations as the brain can attach a meaning to a picture in just 0.25 seconds, better than any other meme of communication.

(Academy of Educational Leadership Journal)

Takeaway: Studies show that audiences respond better to visual aid because the brain can attach meaning to a picture in just one-fourth of a second. This means that using visuals in your presentation can be very beneficial as it helps the audience understand and remember your message better. With this information, it’s important to note that using visuals is an essential part of public speaking. If you’re not using visuals in your presentation, you’re missing out on a key element that can help your audience understand and remember your message.

11. In a latest survey conducted by Speakerflow, only 17% of the speakers were women.

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Speakerflow showed that 17% of the public speakers are female. This means that if you’re a woman who is looking to get into public speaking, you’re not alone. This number is encouraging as it indicates that women are starting to enter the field of public speaking. If you’re a woman who is interested in public speaking, don’t be discouraged by the number of men in the field. You can definitely make a name for yourself as a female public speaker.

12. In a survey conducted in 2021, only 33% of the public speakers said they are expanding their business by hiring employees or contractors

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Speakerflow showed that about 33% of public speakers are expanding their business by hiring employees or contractors. This means that if you’re looking to grow your business, public speaking can be a great way to do it. This number is encouraging as it indicates that public speaking can be a valuable tool for entrepreneurs. If you’re looking to grow your business, using email marketing software, CRM systems and sales tools can be a great way to grow your public speaking business.

13. According to a survey, only 10% of the respondents loved public speaking and they experience the excitement in front of a crowd

(Forbes)

Takeaway: The survey also found that there are some people who actually love public speaking. These people make up only 10% of the participants. Even though public speaking can be nerve-wracking, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Fear of public speaking is extremely common and affects people all over the world.

14. When facts are presented in the form of a story, people are 22x more likely to remember them.

(Forbes)

Takeaway: If you want people to remember the information you’re presenting, tell a story. Studies show that people are 22 times more likely to remember facts if they’re presented in the form of a story. This is because stories are more engaging and memorable than dry facts. When you’re telling a story, make sure to focus on the emotions and include sensory details. This will help your audience connect with the story and remember the information you’re trying to communicate. The more personal and emotional connection you will be able to develop, the better the audience will stay engaged with your presentation.

15. The maximum time you have to grab your audience’s attention is 3 seconds.

(Glance Test)

Takeaway: When you’re giving a presentation, it’s important to grab your audience’s attention right from the start. Studies show that you have a maximum of three seconds to do this. After that, people will start to lose interest and may even tune out completely. To make sure your audience is engaged, start with a strong opening that grabs their attention and sets the tone for the rest of your presentation. Be creative and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. If you can capture your audience’s attention from the start, you’ll be more likely to hold it throughout the entire presentation.

16. 70% of marketers admit that content delivered through interactive sessions with a participating audience is more effective than using static content.

(I on Interactive)

Takeaway: Interactive content is a great way to engage your audience and get them involved in your presentation. Studies show that 70% of marketers believe that interactive content is more effective than traditional, static content. If you’re looking for ways to make your presentation more engaging, consider adding some interactive elements. This could include things like polls, Q&A sessions, or even games. Interactive content will not only make your presentation more enjoyable for your audience, but it will also help them retain more information.

17. If a public speaker does not involve the audience, then their engagement rate drops by 14%.

(Sales Crunch)

Takeaway: Engaging your audience is one of the most important aspects of giving a great presentation. Studies show that if you don’t involve your audience, their engagement will drop by 14%. This means that they’ll be less likely to pay attention and remember what you’re saying. This number indicates that the Public speaker should not be the only one speaking, as it is the duty of the speaker to involve the audience as well. There are many ways to do this, such as asking questions, using stories, and making jokes. By involving your audience, you’ll be more likely to give a great presentation that they’ll remember.

18. The majority of public speakers rate their ability to sell as a 6/10 or higher.

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Speakerflow showed that the majority of public speakers rate their ability to sell as a 6 out of 10. This means that if you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to sell is an important asset. This number is encouraging as it indicates that the majority of public speakers believe in their ability to sell. If you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to sell is an important asset.

19. When it comes to marketing their businesses, public speakers are less confident. In a recent survey, the average speaker gave themselves a 4.5 out of 10, down from previous years. Speakers nevertheless remain optimistic about the future.

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Speakerflow showed that when it comes to marketing their businesses, public speakers are less confident. This means that if you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to market your business is an important asset. A number of 4.5 out of 10 is discouraging as it indicates that the majority of public speakers don’t have a lot of faith in their ability to market their business. If you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to market your business is essential for you to be successful. In order to be a great public speaker, you don’t need to have all the answers. In fact, admitting that you don’t know something can actually make you more relatable and trustworthy.

20. Since 2020, the average speaker invested more than a $1,000 in their home studio. In 2021, speakers reported that 60-70% of their gigs were entirely virtual, as opposed to 40% in 2020.

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Speakerflow showed that since 2020, the average speaker invested more than $1000 in their home studio. This means that if you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to invest in a home studio is an important asset. This number means that having a reliable home recording studio is becoming increasingly important for public speakers. In 2021, speakers reported that 60-70% of their gigs were entirely virtual, as opposed to 40% in 2020. This trend is likely to continue as more and more events move online. If you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to invest in a home studio is an important asset.

21. In 2021, 30% of professional public speakers earn revenue from self-generated sources.

(Speakerflow)

Takeaway: A survey showed that in 2021, 30% of professional public speakers earn revenue from self-generated sources. This means that if you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to generate revenue is an important asset. This number indicates that the majority of public speakers believe in their ability to generate revenue, but need to have more than one source to be successful. Public speakers are turning into other memes of revenue such as coaching, consulting, and other forms of online work. If you’re looking to get into public speaking, your ability to generate revenue is an important asset.

Fear Of Public Speaking Statistics

22. Among the top 5 phobias in the world, public speaking anxiety ranks number 1 with 19%

(NSAC Advisory21)

Takeaway: Public speaking anxiety is one of the most common phobias in the world. Studies show that it ranks number one with 19%. This means that fear of Public Speaking is the most common phobia shared in the world. This phobia is followed by a fear of death, spiders, heights, and small places. But the fact that fear of public speaking surpasses the fear of death indicates that immediate counseling needs to be provided to patients suffering from public speaking anxiety.

23. Fear of public speaking cuts wages by 15%.

(Ethos3)

Takeaway: If you’re afraid of public speaking, you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that this fear can have a significant impact on your career. Fear of public speaking can lead to a 15% reduction in wages, according to one study. This number is more prominent among the Millennials. This is because building confidence acts as a major differentiating factor in this generation. So if you’re afraid of public speaking, don’t let it hold you back. Learn to overcome your fear and maximize your potential earnings. So if you want to earn more money, it’s important to overcome your fear of public speaking.

24. Fear of public speaking causes impairment as well. 48.1% deal with mild impairment, 30% have moderate impairment, and 21.9% have serious impairment.

(NIMH)

Takeaway: The fear of public speaking doesn’t just cause anxiety – it can also lead to impairment. Studies show that 48.12% of people with a fear of public speaking deal with mild impairment, 30% have a moderate impairment, and 21.98% have a serious impairment. This means that the fear of public speaking can hinder your ability to function properly in day-to-day life. If you’re struggling with this fear, it’s important to seek help from a professional. They can help you overcome your fear and get back to living a normal life.

25. 24% of college graduates fear public speaking.

(Gallup)

Takeaway: Public speaking is one of the most common fears among people. Studies show that 24% of college graduates fear public speaking. This means that nearly one in four people are afraid of giving presentations. This number is quite alarming as it shows the lack of confidence in college graduates and how fear of public speaking can hinder their growth. If you’re one of those people, don’t worry – you’re not alone. There are plenty of resources and methods out there to help you overcome your fear of public speaking.

26. Before going on stage, around 75% of people suffer from speech anxiety.

(Corporate Communication Experts)

Takeaway: If you’re feeling nervous before a presentation, you’re not alone. In fact, studies show that 75% of people suffer from speech anxiety prior to going on stage. This is perfectly normal and there are ways to deal with it. One way to overcome your nerves is to practice your presentation. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to give your speech. You can also try deep breathing exercises or visualization techniques to calm your nerves. Remember, everyone gets nervous before a presentation. And this is obvious from the fact that 75% of people experience speech anxiety. The key is to not let your nerves get the best of you.

27. Public speaking anxiety inhibits promotions by 15%.

(Ethos3)

Takeaway: If you’re afraid of public speaking, it could be holding you back from getting promoted. Studies show that fear of public speaking inhibits promotions by 15%. This is because confidence is a major differentiating factor in the workplace. If you’re not confident in your ability to speak in front of others, it’s going to be difficult to get promoted. So, the fear of Public Speaking can hold you back from succeeding in your workplace.

28. 73% of the people in the United States suffer from public speaking anxiety.

(NSAC)

Takeaway: The fear of public speaking is a very real thing. In fact, studies show that 73% of people in the United States suffer from public speaking anxiety. This means that if you’re afraid of speaking in front of others, you’re not alone. This fear is extremely common worldwide, especially in the United States and it affects 73% of the population. The fear of Public Speaking is also known as glossophobia or speech anxiety. This phobia can cause physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, and a racing heart. If you’re suffering from this fear, there are ways to overcome it. One way is to practice your presentation in front of friends or family members. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel when it’s time to give your speech.

29. 10% of the general population is terrified of public speaking.

(Forbes)

Takeaway: Forbes conducted research and the findings were that 10% of people are terrified of Public Speaking. This is a very high number and it indicates that the fear of public speaking is a very real thing. The survey also found that the fear of public speaking is more common in women than men. And it’s also more common in younger people than older people. This survey indicated that fear of Public Speaking is a general concern in society that needs to be taken care of.

30. Women fear public speaking more than men with a ratio of 44% in women to 37% in men.

(Gallup Ripley’s)

Takeaway: Studies show that women are more likely to fear public speaking than men. The stats show that 44% of women fear public speaking, while only 37% of men do. This means that nearly half of all women are afraid of giving presentations. This number is quite alarming as it indicates the lack of confidence in women when it comes to public speaking. This also reflects the fact that if this number keeps on rising then women are less likely to succeed in their professional lives.

31. 34% of the non-white population suffers from public speaking anxiety.

(NCBI)

Takeaway: Studies show that 34% of the non-white population suffers from public speaking anxiety. This means that nearly one in three people of color are afraid of giving presentations. This number is quite alarming as it shows the lack of confidence in minorities when it comes to public speaking. This also reflects the fact that if this number keeps on rising then, people of color are less likely to succeed in their professional lives.

32. 69% of people over 45 felt comfortable with public speaking whereas only 25% of people in the age group 16-24 felt confident with public speaking.

(NCBI)

Takeaway: Studies show that 69% of people over the age of 45 felt comfortable with public speaking, while only 25% of people in the age group 16-24 felt confident with public speaking. This means that nearly three-quarters of older adults are confident when it comes to giving presentations, while only a quarter of young adults feels the same way. This number is quite alarming as it indicates the lack of confidence in young people when it comes to public speaking. This fact also indicates that confidence increases with age.

33. Public speaking anxiety disorder is prevalent in 15% to 30% of the general population.

(NIH)

Takeaway: Studies show that public speaking anxiety disorder is prevalent in 15% to 30% of the general population. This means that nearly one in three people suffer from this disorder. This number is quite alarming as it indicates the prevalence of this disorder. If you’re struggling with public speaking anxiety, it’s important to seek help from a professional.

34. 90% of public speaking fear is caused due to poor preparation and lack of management methods.

(Soocial)

Takeaway: One of the main reasons people fear public speaking is because they feel unprepared. Studies show that 90% of public speaking anxiety is caused by poor preparation and a lack of management methods. If you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming presentation, make sure to take the time to prepare. This includes things like practicing your speech, creating visual aids, and knowing your audience. By taking the time to prepare, you’ll be more likely to feel confident and give a great presentation.

35. Only 8% of people suffering from Public Speaking fear seek professional help.

(ScienceDirect)

Takeaway: Although Public Speaking fear and anxiety is a real problem and should be seriously taken care of but studies show that only 8% of people suffering from glossophobia actually take action against their problem. This number is quite low and indicates that people are not very well informed about the available help or they do not think that their problem is big enough to seek professional help. If you’re suffering from glossophobia, don’t hesitate to seek help from a therapist or counselor. They can help you overcome your fear and give you tools to deal with anxiety in future situations.

36. In a study, 95% of the public speaking anxiety participants agreed that proper counseling can help them overcome their public speaking fear.

(Journal of Education and Educational Development)

Takeaway: In a study, 95% of the public speaking anxiety participants agreed that proper counseling can help them overcome their fear of public speaking. This means that nearly all participants in the study believe that therapy can help them conquer their fear. With proper counseling and a little therapy, the rising fear of public speaking can be significantly controlled. This also needs to be practiced in schools and colleges to indulge people in public speaking from the beginning. If you’re struggling with this fear, it’s important to seek help from a professional. They can help you overcome your fear.

37. The annual cost of treatments for social anxiety disorders, including public speaking anxiety is between $42.3 to $46.6 billion.

(NCBI)

Takeaway: Public speaking anxiety is a real and serious problem. Studies show that it costs the US economy between $42.33 and $46.63 billion annually in treatments for social anxiety disorders. A big bundle of the economy goes into treating these Social Anxiety disorders and Public Speaking Anxiety constitutes a major proportion of it. If you’re struggling with public speaking anxiety, it’s important to seek help.

38. The average American would rather go to the dentist than give a speech.

(Forbes)

Takeaway: A survey conducted by Forbes showed that the average American would rather go to the dentist than give a speech. This means that the fear of public speaking is quite high among Americans that they would choose anything other than speaking in front of a crowd.

39. The most common age group for public speaking anxiety is 18-24 years old.

(The National Institute of Mental Health)

Takeaway: The National Institute of Mental Health conducted a study that showed that the most common age group for public speaking anxiety is 18-24 years old. This means that if you’re a young adult who is struggling with the fear of public speaking, you’re not alone. This number is discouraging as it indicates that the fear of public speaking is quite high among young adults which pretty much shapes their future course.

40. 10% of people with public speaking anxiety claim they face difficulties in conducting daily activities.

(NIH)

Takeaway: The fear of public speaking can have a serious impact on your life. Studies show that people who suffer from glossophobia often have difficulty conducting daily activities. This includes things like going to work, shopping, and even socializing with friends and family. They also face a lot of difficulties in their educational or work environments. If you’re struggling to do everyday tasks because of your fear of public speaking, it’s important to seek help. There are many resources available to help you overcome your anxiety and live a normal, productive life.

41. Among patients with social anxiety disorder, 89.4% of them had a fear of public speaking.

(NIH)

Takeaway: The fear of public speaking is a very real thing. In fact, studies show that 89.44% of patients with social anxiety disorder have a fear of public speaking. This phobia can cause physical symptoms such as trembling, sweating, and a racing heart. Anxiety disorders are very common among people, especially amongst Millennials and Public Speaking anxiety tops the list. If you’re suffering from this fear, there are ways to overcome it.

Wrapping Up

Public speaking can be a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. There are plenty of people who struggle with the same thing. The key is to find ways to overcome your fears and deliver a great presentation. These public speaking statistics should give you some insight into the world of public speaking and help you prepare for your next presentation.

What are some other public speaking statistics that you know of? Share them in the comments below!

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