Public Speaking Facts Visualized

Public speaking isn’t for everyone. For some, the thought of stepping onto a stage already creates anxiety, for others, it’s powerful feeling they enjoy. In this article, we’re going to explore public speaking facts, diving into the fear of public speaking, the most expensive speakers, the longest speech marathon recorded, and more.

Are you afraid of public speaking?

When you think about public speaking do you feel confident and invigorated? Or do you feel like you’re going to have a panic attack? According to Forbes, 10 percent of people love public speaking, another 10 percent are absolutely terrified, and the rest of the population is uncomfortable to a certain degree with the thought of speaking in front of a group.

We visualized a few fun facts about the people that live for public speaking and those with glossophobia who feel sick to their stomach at the mere thought of it.

Top 10 Phobias

This may shock you, but people are more afraid of public speaking than death, spiders, heights, and the dark!

Highest (and Lowest) Speaking Fees

Most politicians love the spotlight. And if they don’t, they do a fantastic job of looking cool, calm, and collected speaking in front of huge crowds. Here is a list of Washington’s top-earning speakers, with Donald Trump in the lead at $1.5 million per appearance!

5 Fears of Public Speaking

We know most people are afraid of speaking in public, but what about it scares them the most? Looks like people are worried about sounding as nervous as they feel, experiencing technical difficulties, and having jokes fall flat on a bored audience.

Longest Speech Marathon

Guinness World Records awarded Ajay Shesh top honors in their ‘longest speech marathon‘ category. She spoke for almost three days in India, from 27 – 30 in May 2015.

75% of People Fear Public Speaking

Roughly three out of four people admit to being scared of public speaking. That’s a big number! Surprisingly, men and women are almost 50/50 on the issue.

Longest Filibusters 

A filibuster in the United States Senate is an obstructive tactic used to prevent a measure from being brought to a vote. The rules allow a senator, or a group of senators, to speak for as long as they wish, on any topic they choose, until a majority brings the debate to a close.

Politico took a look at the longest speeches in Senate history, based on information from the Senate Historical Office.
Speaking in front of an audience, and doing it well, is a skill that can take years to develop. Luckily, there are multiple ways you can instantly improve your speaking and presenting skills. Science of People collected 15 great public speaking tips for you to try next time you’re in the spotlight. You will improve your public speaking abilities in no time!

Have you overcome your fear of public speaking? Leave any advice you may have for others in the comments below.