Why Repetition Works for Public Speakers
In public speaking, executive leadership, and persuasive communication, one technique stands out as a game-changer: Repetition.
If you want people to hear you, remember you, and act on what you say, you need to reinforce your message multiple times.
This is why the best communicators follow a simple but effective structure:
- Tell them what you’re going to tell them.
- Tell them.
- Tell them what you told them.
This technique ensures that your message not only gets heard but also sticks. When used correctly, repetition helps leaders drive their points home, ensuring their audience walks away with a clear understanding of key takeaways.
The Power of Repetition: A Strategic Communication Tool for Public Speaking
Repetition isn’t just about saying the same thing over and over—it’s a strategic tool that enhances communication in several ways:
- Increases Memorability – The more your audience hears a key point, the more likely they are to retain and recall it later. This is why knowing your audience is more important than your slide deck.
- Highlights Importance – When a message is repeated, it signals to the audience that this information is critical.
- Enhances Persuasion – Studies show that the more people hear an idea, the more likely they are to accept and internalize it.
- Provides Clarity – Repeating your main ideas in different ways ensures your audience fully understands your message.
Public speaking isn’t just a skill—it’s a vital leadership tool. Your ability to communicate effectively can open doors to new opportunities and career growth. By refining your delivery and strategically using repetition, you can become a more impactful public speaker. You can work to not be held back as a leader.
How Executive Leaders Can Use Repetition to Inspire Action
Whether you’re leading a team, pitching an idea, or giving a keynote speech, repetition helps solidify your message.
This is particularly important when:
- Your audience has no slides or recordings to reference later.
- You’re setting a long-term vision and need buy-in from your team.
- You’re motivating people to take action, not just passively listen.
For example, if you’re outlining a strategy for 2025 business goals, you might structure your message like this:
- Tell them what you’re going to tell them: “There are two key strategies we’ll focus on in 2025 to drive growth.”
- Tell them: “First, we’re investing in new technology to streamline operations. Second, we’re expanding into new markets to reach a wider audience.”
- Tell them what you told them: “To summarize—our 2025 success will be driven by two key strategies: leveraging technology and expanding into new markets.”
By repeating your core message in different ways and breathing along the way, you make it easier for your audience to grasp, remember, and act on what you’re saying.
The Right Way to Use Repetition in Public Speaking
While repetition is powerful, it must be used wisely to avoid sounding redundant.
Here are a few key strategies:
1. Vary the Phrasing
Repeating an idea doesn’t mean using the exact same words. Instead, reframe your message in slightly different ways to keep it fresh and engaging.
2. Keep It Balanced
Too much repetition can feel redundant or even annoying. The goal is to reinforce—not overwhelm—your audience.
3. Consider the Context
Different settings require different levels of repetition. A high-stakes keynote speech might need more reinforcement than a small team meeting. You could, also, try to make your message more relatable depending on the context of your speech.
Common Public Speaking Mistakes When Using Repetition
Even experienced speakers can misuse repetition.
Here are three mistakes to avoid:
- Overloading with Repetition – Saying the same thing too many times can make your audience tune out.
- Repeating Without a Purpose – Every repetition should reinforce a key takeaway, not just fill space.
- Failing to Adapt to the Audience – Pay attention to how your audience is responding. If they seem disengaged, adjust your approach.
Say It, Say It Again, and Say It Again
If you want your message to be heard, remembered, and acted upon, repetition is your best friend for public speaking. Whether you’re leading a team, persuading an audience, or giving a high-stakes presentation, structuring your message with repetition ensures clarity, retention, and impact.
At Janicek Performance Group, we help leaders refine their public speaking skills so their message is heard loud and clear. If you’re ready to elevate your communication skills, build executive presence, and lead with confidence, let’s talk.
