Public Communication vs. Public Speech

Attribute	Public Communication	Public Speech
Definition	Exchange of information between an organization and its publics	Formal address or presentation given to an audience
Audience	Can be targeted to specific groups or the general public	Usually a live audience present during the speech
Medium	Can include various channels such as social media, press releases, speeches, etc.	Usually delivered orally, but can also be written
Goal	Inform, persuade, or engage the publics	Inform, persuade, or inspire the audience
Feedback	Can receive feedback from the publics through various channels	Immediate feedback from the audience during or after the speech

Definition

Public communication and public speech are both forms of communication that involve speaking to a large audience. Public communication refers to any form of communication that is directed towards a mass audience, such as speeches, presentations, or public announcements. Public speech, on the other hand, specifically refers to the act of delivering a speech or address to a group of people. While both involve speaking in front of an audience, public communication is a broader term that encompasses various forms of communication, while public speech is more specific to the act of delivering a speech.

Context

Public communication can take place in a variety of contexts, such as in a business setting, at a public event, or in a political campaign. It can involve various forms of communication, such as speeches, press releases, social media posts, or advertisements. Public speech, on the other hand, is typically associated with formal settings, such as conferences, ceremonies, or rallies. It is often delivered by a single speaker addressing a specific topic or issue to a live audience.

Goals

The goals of public communication and public speech can vary depending on the context and purpose of the communication. Public communication aims to inform, persuade, or entertain a mass audience. It may seek to raise awareness about a particular issue, promote a product or service, or mobilize support for a cause. Public speech, on the other hand, is more focused on delivering a message or argument in a clear and compelling manner. It aims to engage and captivate the audience, leaving a lasting impression on the listeners.

Delivery

Public communication can be delivered through various channels, such as speeches, presentations, press releases, social media, or advertisements. It may involve multiple speakers or sources of information, and can be tailored to different audiences or platforms. Public speech, on the other hand, is typically delivered by a single speaker in a live setting. It requires effective verbal and nonverbal communication skills, such as tone of voice, body language, and eye contact, to engage and connect with the audience.

Preparation

Both public communication and public speech require careful preparation to ensure that the message is clear, coherent, and impactful. Public communication may involve research, planning, and coordination with other stakeholders to deliver a consistent and effective message. Public speech, on the other hand, requires the speaker to craft a compelling narrative, structure the speech effectively, and rehearse the delivery to ensure a polished and engaging presentation.

Feedback

Feedback is an important aspect of both public communication and public speech. Public communication allows for feedback from the audience through various channels, such as surveys, comments, or social media interactions. This feedback can help to gauge the effectiveness of the communication and make adjustments as needed. Public speech, on the other hand, may involve immediate feedback from the live audience, such as applause, laughter, or questions. This real-time feedback can help the speaker to gauge the audience's reaction and adjust their delivery accordingly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, public communication and public speech are both important forms of communication that involve speaking to a large audience. While public communication is a broader term that encompasses various forms of communication directed towards a mass audience, public speech specifically refers to the act of delivering a speech to a live audience. Both forms of communication require careful preparation, effective delivery, and feedback to ensure that the message is clear, engaging, and impactful. Whether delivering a speech or communicating with a mass audience, effective communication skills are essential for engaging and connecting with the audience.