In 2014, I managed social media for a client who sold paint products across a network of retailers. One afternoon, she asked if I could give a presentation to her retailers on how social media could support their business. I hadn’t done much public speaking at that point, but I was excited to share what I knew.

I enjoyed giving that presentation, and something unexpected happened next. That single hour didn’t just help those retailers. It brought my own business new attention. Word spread among small business owners, and soon I was speaking for groups filled with the exact types of clients I loved working with. Presenting quickly became one of the most effective ways to grow my visibility and deepen my network.

Why Presenting Helps Small Business Owners

When you present, people get a feel for your approach, your communication style, and the way you understand your work. Those moments build trust faster than almost any other marketing effort.

That trust often leads to collaboration, referrals, or opportunities you can’t anticipate in the moment.

The Problem Most Presenters Don’t Expect

Most audiences won’t tell you when they’re confused.

You can invite questions.
You can pause for a check-in.
You can wrap up and ask for final thoughts.

People still stay quiet. Sometimes it’s politeness. Sometimes it’s nerves. Sometimes it’s not wanting to look like they missed something. And often the confusion happens because the presenter is trying too hard to sound polished or expert.

Early in my speaking days, I learned this firsthand. I introduced myself using heavy industry jargon, thinking it made me sound credible. I opened with something like:

“I optimize dynamic content ecosystems to drive sustained audience interactions across integrated platforms.”

A mouthful!! It sounded elevated, but it didn’t communicate much. The room looked puzzled. If I had simply said….

“I help businesses create manageable marketing strategies so they can connect consistently with their audience,”

Everyone would have relaxed. Clarity keeps people with you. And when they stay with you, the message lands.

Where You Can Start

You don’t need a stage or a keynote. Here are easy ways to begin sharing your knowledge without pressure:

• Speak at a chamber of commerce meeting
• Offer a small workshop for neighboring businesses
• Present at a local meetup or professional group
• Host a short virtual session for peers or partners
• Share a simple “how this works” talk for your library’s adult programs

Choose one topic you feel confident explaining. Keep one clear message at the center. Speak in plain language so everyone can follow along.

What Happens When You Keep It Simple

Clear, accessible communication doesn’t just make your presentation stronger. It helps your business stand out in a world full of noise. When people understand you, they remember you. And when they remember you, opportunities tend to show up in ways you can’t always predict.

A Friendly Invitation

If you’d like grounded, practical marketing insights like this delivered weekly, I’d love for you to join my weekly newsletter. It’s a thoughtful space focused on manageable strategies you can actually use. Here’s to finding steady, grounded ways to grow your business and connect with the people who need what you do!