Be a More Likeable Speaker To Land More Gigs (Without Being Fake)

Present Influence: The Professional Speaking Show

Content provided by John Ball. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by John Ball or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://staging.podcastplayer.com/legal.

6d ago 11:50

MP3•Episode home

Show Notes: The Power of Liking for Speakers

Welcome back! In this solo episode, John dives into one of Robert Cialdini’s most underrated principles of influence—liking. If you’ve ever wondered why some speakers seem to get booked again and again, or how you can turn your audience into true fans without changing a word of your keynote, this episode is for you.

Introduction: Why Liking Matters

John kicks things off by sharing why understanding the principle of liking is a game-changer for anyone who wants to get booked, rebooked, or simply make a bigger impact as a speaker. It’s not just about what you say on stage—it’s about how you connect with people, both on and off the mic.

The Science Behind Liking

Drawing on Cialdini’s research, John explains that we’re all more likely to say “yes” to people we genuinely like. He shares his own journey, from starting out with a small audience to building a platform and podcast, all by focusing on curiosity, generosity, and authentic relationships.

Real Connections vs. Transactional Interactions

John gets real about the difference between building genuine connections and falling into the trap of being transactional. He shares stories from his own experience—how being easy to work with and showing appreciation opened doors to new opportunities, referrals, and collaborations.

How to Be More Likeable (and Why It Matters)

This chapter is packed with practical advice. John talks about the importance of using audience-relevant language, sharing stories (especially the ones where things didn’t go perfectly), and being open about your own quirks and mistakes. He reminds us that being likeable isn’t about flattery or people-pleasing—it’s about being real, approachable, and easy to work with.

Likability Killers to Avoid

Not everything is sunshine and roses—John also covers the behaviours that can quickly destroy likability. From being overly self-focused or inauthentic, to lacking emotional presence or coming across as rigid, he explains why these habits can hold you back as a speaker.

Authenticity Over Perfection

One of the big takeaways from this episode is that you don’t need to win everyone over. In fact, trying to please everyone is a losing game. Instead, focus on showing up as someone who’s trustworthy, warm, and competent. Likability can’t make up for a bad talk, but it can turn a good one into something unforgettable.

Wrapping Up & What’s Next

John closes the episode by encouraging you to be the speaker people want to work with and invite back. If you found this valuable, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and check out the links in the show notes for free tools to help you build ethical influence. And stay tuned—the next episode will explore another of Cialdini’s heavy hitters: reciprocity.

Thanks for listening! Until next time, stay present, stay likeable, and stay influential.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The Power of Liking

00:38 Exploring Cialdini's Principle of Liking

01:50 Personal Journey: Building Connections

04:13 Ethical Application of Liking

05:52 Practical Tips for Speakers

07:31 Common Pitfalls to Avoid

10:58 Conclusion: Elevate Your Speaking Game

Go to presentinfluence.com to take the Speaker StrengthsFinder Quiz and discover your greatest strengths as a speaker as well as where to focus for growth. For speaking enquiries or to connect with me, you can email [email protected] or find me on LinkedIn

You can find all our clips, episodes and more on the Present Influence YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PresentInfluence

Thanks for listening, and please give the show a 5* review if you enjoyed it.

212 episodes

#Entrepreneur #Business #Self-Improvement #Public Speaking #Presentation Skills #Influence #Persuasion #Rhetoric #Speeches #Oratory #Podcasting Education #Marketing #John Ball #Pitch