It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers as a speaker—how many attendees are in the audience, how many views your video gets, or how many followers you’ve amassed. But what if I told you that your career could be transformed by focusing on just one person?
In Speak Goodr and my other experiences, I’ve come to learn that making an impact isn’t about how many people you reach but how deeply you connect with them. When you speak with intention and authenticity, you create a ripple effect that extends far beyond the walls of the room or the number on a view counter.
The Power of Reaching One
There’s a story I often share about an early speaking engagement. I walked off the stage feeling defeated, convinced that my message had fallen flat. But later, a young woman approached me and shared how something I said inspired her to take a leap of faith in her career. That one conversation reframed my entire perspective.
It’s tempting to believe that impact is measured in applause or large audiences. But sometimes, your greatest success comes from inspiring one person to make a positive change. That’s the real power of intentional communication—it’s not about being heard by everyone; it’s about being remembered by someone.
The Ripple Effect of Impact
When you reach one person in a meaningful way, the effects often multiply. A powerful story or insight doesn’t end with the listener; it’s shared, implemented, and expanded upon.
Think about this: a teacher inspired by your talk might carry your ideas into their classroom, influencing dozens of students. A business leader who resonates with your message might transform their company culture, creating a better environment for their team.
This ripple effect is why focusing on depth over breadth is so critical. Even if your audience is small, the influence you create can grow exponentially.
Intention Over Audience Size
Authenticity and intention resonate far more than audience size ever will. In So You Want to Speak, I emphasize the importance of speaking with purpose. When your words come from a place of genuine care and conviction, they land with greater impact—whether you’re addressing ten people or ten thousand.
Ask yourself before every presentation:
- What transformation do I want to inspire in this audience?
- What’s the one key takeaway I want someone to carry with them?
- How can I deliver my message in a way that feels personal and relatable?
The answers to these questions will guide your delivery and ensure your message connects on a deeper level.
Practical Tips for Creating Impact
To focus on reaching and inspiring individuals, keep these strategies in mind:
- Speak to One Person. Picture one ideal listener and tailor your message as though you’re having a conversation with them. This approach creates authenticity and personal connection.
- Share Vulnerable Stories. Personal anecdotes resonate because they humanize your message. When you’re open about your own challenges, audiences are more likely to relate and respond.
- Invite Engagement. Encourage your audience to reflect, share, or take action. A question or challenge that prompts them to consider how your message applies to their life deepens the impact.
Your Legacy Lies in the Lives You Touch
Focusing on one person doesn’t just transform your audience—it transforms you as a speaker. When you prioritize connection over metrics, you free yourself from the pressure of perfection. Instead of chasing numbers, you’ll find fulfillment in the lives you touch and the stories you inspire.
Final Thoughts
Making an impact doesn’t require a massive stage or a huge audience. It requires authenticity, intention, and the willingness to focus on the individual. Whether you’re speaking to one person or one thousand, remember that the ripple effect of your words can transform careers, communities, and lives.
Your next audience is waiting. Speak as though you’re talking to one person who needs your message—and watch how far that message travels.