Theo Watson

In conversation with Theo Watson (Conference Speaker, Senior Corporate Counsel at Microsoft South Africa)

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theowatson1/

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The main points from our conversation:

 

• Confidence Comes with Experience – Public speaking is a skill that develops over time. Start small, embrace opportunities, and push past nerves to gain confidence.

 

• Authenticity is Key – Don't try to imitate famous speakers. Be yourself, adapt to your audience, and let your personality shine through.

 

• Preparation and Adaptability Matter – Tailor your message to your audience and refine your delivery based on feedback and experience.

 

• Mentorship and Support Make a Difference – Encourage and mentor others, especially underrepresented voices, to help them step into the spotlight.

 

• Technology and Ethics Go Hand in Hand – In the evolving tech space, responsible and ethical discussions are crucial. Use speaking platforms to advocate for meaningful change.

 

About our conversation:

 

Public speaking is often seen as an innate talent, reserved for those who are naturally charismatic. However, as Theo Watson’s journey shows, it is a skill that can be learned, refined, and mastered over time. Theo, a Senior Corporate Counsel at Microsoft, initially struggled with public speaking, experiencing nerves and self-doubt. Yet, through experience and persistence, he transformed into a confident and engaging speaker. His story serves as inspiration for aspiring speakers who fear they lack the ability to command an audience.

 

The Power of Authenticity

One of the most important lessons Theo shares is the value of authenticity. Many aspiring speakers make the mistake of trying to emulate well-known figures such as Steve Jobs or Trevor Noah. While these individuals are exceptional communicators, attempting to mimic their style can feel unnatural and forced. Instead, speakers should focus on embracing their own unique personalities. Theo highlights the importance of staying true to oneself while also adapting to the audience. Being genuine helps foster a deeper connection with listeners, making presentations more impactful and memorable.

 

Building Confidence Through Experience

Confidence in public speaking does not develop overnight. Theo recounts how his early experiences—whether as a young attorney arguing in court or presenting compliance updates at Microsoft—forced him to step outside his comfort zone. He emphasises the need to embrace opportunities, even when they seem daunting. Every speaking engagement, no matter how small, is a chance to improve. Nervousness is natural, but over time, with repeated exposure, speakers learn to manage their fears and perform with greater ease.

 

The Role of Preparation and Adaptability

Effective public speakers understand the importance of preparation. Theo recalls how his initial fear of speaking to large audiences was alleviated by thoroughly preparing his material. Having a well-structured presentation ensures clarity and confidence. However, he also stresses the need for adaptability. Different audiences require different approaches. Some events demand a formal, structured style, while others benefit from a more relaxed and humorous delivery. Theo’s ability to gauge the mood of a room and adjust his approach has been key to his success as a speaker.

 

Mentoring and Representation

Representation in public speaking remains a challenge, particularly for African voices and female professionals in the technology sector. Theo acknowledges the underrepresentation of diverse speakers at major conferences and highlights the need for mentorship. He shares a personal example of mentoring a female colleague, guiding her through her first speaking engagements, and watching her confidence grow. Encouragement, support, and providing platforms for underrepresented voices can help foster a more inclusive and diverse speaking community.

 

The Intersection of Technology and Ethics

As a legal expert in the technology space, Theo is passionate about discussions on AI, ethics, and regulation. He warns against the dangers of neglecting ethical considerations in the rapid advancement of AI. Public speaking offers a platform to shape conversations on these critical issues, influencing policies and practices that will impact the future. Aspiring speakers should recognise the power of their voice in advocating for responsible and meaningful technological progress.

 

Conclusion

Theo Watson’s journey demonstrates that public speaking is a skill that can be developed with practice, authenticity, and mentorship. Confidence grows with experience, and adaptability enhances effectiveness. Most importantly, staying true to oneself and supporting others can help create a richer, more diverse speaking landscape. For those looking to make an impact, whether in technology or any other field, the time to start is now.