Let’s delve into the intriguing contrast between two distinct speaking styles: Speak to Know and Speak to Feel.

At a recent conference, I observed a series of captivating speakers who used poignant stories to trigger emotions in their audience. The thunderous applause at their talks left me pondering the true impact of their presentations. While attendees may have left with a sense of emotional upliftment, could they articulate the key takeaways after an hour? Probably not. This style, Speak to Feel, focuses on eliciting emotions but might fall short in conveying actionable knowledge.

In contrast, Speak to Know, a style I’m deeply familiar with from my engineering days, centers around delivering information for decision-making. Presenting project updates to senior management required clear communication, highlighting resource needs, timelines, and rationales. This approach aims to equip the audience with actionable insights, enabling them to make informed choices.

Which style is preferable? At conferences, Speak to Feel might dominate, resonating emotionally with the audience. However, I, personally, advocate for Speak to Know. When attending presentations, I seek tangible takeaways that I can apply. Effective presentations furnish actionable insights that outlast the event’s emotional impact.

Ultimately, the choice between these styles depends on your audience and objectives. Remember, impactful presentations strike a balance between evoking emotions and imparting knowledge.