The Appalling State of Applause

At the National Speakers Association, we joke that everyone—including the salad chef—gets a standing ovation. Funny, yes. Accurate, no. Most conferences are far more restrained.

My other association family is the Professional Speechwriters Association, and this year’s conference was one of the best I have ever attended. Early on, we heard from a moderated panel of four seasoned speechwriters discussing the challenges of working in today’s politically charged environment. Their insights were thoughtful. Their stories were brave. Their message was organized, polished, and delivered with clarity.

As they finished—before the Q&A—I was ready for thunderous applause.

Not polite clapping. Appreciation for their preparation, respect for their experience, and sympathy for what many of them had endured.

But that moment never came.

Q&A began. More thoughtful remarks. More articulate answers. At the end, the applause was warm… yet not enough.

From the front row, with the Executive Director’s blessing, I turned to the audience and asked, “Wasn’t that terrific? Don’t you think they deserve a standing ovation?”

The entire room rose to its feet. The ovation continued—long, loud, and deeply deserved.

They needed someone to start.

For the rest of the conference, the audience stood more often. Several attendees told me, “Fripp, I always want you in the front row.”

Yes, as a speaker, I know the power of paying attention. My face, my posture, and even my energy all signal support, encouragement, and respect.

Why Standing Ovations Matter

A well-earned standing ovation does far more than honor the speaker. It elevates the entire room.
Here’s why:

• It strengthens the community.
  When an audience stands together, they unite in appreciation. It becomes a shared emotional experience, not just a moment of evaluation.
• It reinforces excellence.
  Public recognition validates preparation, courage, and clarity. When excellence is acknowledged, more excellence follows.
• It energizes the audience.
  Standing physically engages people. Applause lifts mood, shifts energy, and increases everyone’s emotional investment in the event.
• It models generosity.
  Applause is free—and powerful. A generous audience creates a gracious and generous atmosphere where speakers, storytellers, and participants feel safe to give more.
• It reminds us that leadership is participatory.
  Sometimes all it takes is one person willing to stand first.

When a presentation deserves it, enthusiastic applause and a standing ovation are good for the speaker and the audience. Encouragement is contagious. Appreciation multiplies. And every conference becomes richer because of it.

I challenge us all to be great audiences.

If you need help becoming a speaker who always deserves a standing ovation, let’s talk.

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