Initial credibility refers to what aspect of public speaking?

Initial credibility is defined as the audience's perception of the speaker's expertise and trustworthiness before the speech begins. This aspect is crucial because it sets the stage for how the audience will receive the message. When a speaker has high initial credibility, the audience is more likely to engage with the content positively and be receptive to the arguments presented.

Factors that contribute to initial credibility can include the speaker's qualifications, experience, reputation, and even their physical appearance. If the audience perceives the speaker as knowledgeable and trustworthy beforehand, they are more inclined to believe and comprehend the information being shared during the presentation.

In contrast, expertise developed after the speech pertains to how the audience evaluates the speaker based on the performance and the content delivered. Similarly, while the content of the presentation and visual aids play important roles in the overall effectiveness of a speech, they do not directly pertain to the initial perception of the speaker's credibility. Therefore, initial credibility specifically encompasses the audience's pre-existing attitudes toward the speaker before they deliver their message.